Writing Acupuncture Case Reports

Book excerpt: Case reports have been written for centuries to capture the realities of clinical practice. Acupuncturists have written records of their patient encounters not only to explain the logic behind successful diagnosis and treatment but also to bring to light new interpretations and approaches based on traditional theory. In recent years with the advent of evidence-based medicine and the prioritization of large-scale clinical trials, case report writing has languished. This approach neglects the insights gleaned from the practice of traditional acupuncture that may help to meet the needs of individual patients. Writing Acupuncture Case Reports: Theory and Practice reveals the importance of writing acupuncture case reports for education, research, and clinical practice. In addition to providing a step-by-step guide to writing a rigorous case report, the book outlines the benefits of case reports extending beyond simply recording unusual clinical situations or warning of adverse effects. It shows how case reports can be used to individualize effective treatment based on traditional theory, demonstrate a particular approach to acupuncture, or illustrate ways to collaborate in integrative practice. A close look at case reports reveals them to be an overlooked source of evidence with the potential for advancing the practice of acupuncture.