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Medical Acupuncture: Our Journal
Medical Acupuncture is rich in technology and picks up where Western medicine may end. It is easy for us to applaud this ancient art because we are so engrossed in its practice. There are other professionals who do not share our philosophy or recognize its importance. Because we know that acupuncture may not manifest itself completely in Newtonian physics, it is even difficult for us to validate it with traditional clinical trials. Thus, convincing our non-acupuncture colleagues may always be difficult. As the successes of medical acupuncture comes to the forefront, this journal can serve as a valuable tool for those wishing to expand their knowledge in medical acupuncture. It is important that we build a respectable literature database of medical acupuncture research. The most significant challenge is that our publication consists mainly of anecdotal case studies as opposed to clinical trials. Clinical trials are beyond the reach of most of our readership except those engaged in academic research. Anecdotal clinical case reports do serve a very practical purpose. Simply put, it tells you how to treat a patient for certain conditions. Some of my colleagues have stated that they get more out of knowing where to place the needles for a successful treatment than going through a statistical report. Both are valid and I am sure you will agree that our journal does an outstanding job of educating those who wish to practice medical acupuncture. We should strive for the highest quality of case reports possible. Our manuscripts should be carefully crafted to meet the highest standards of scientific writing. Eventually as our journal matures, we will attract other categories of articles. If we are publishing case reports, we should publish the best ones. Our journal is the wonderful beacon of medical acupuncture. Let our light illuminate the darkest shadows of skepticism and enrich the world by our ability to heal both the physical and spiritual realms of man. If our paradigm is more cosmic and even elusive, let us give it meaning that all can understand and practice.
- Richard C. Niemtzow, MD, PhD, MPH
Editor-in-Chief
EDITOR INFORMATION
Dr Richard C. Niemtzow is a Radiation Oncologist and Colonel in the United States Air Force. He is the Chief Medical Consultant for Alternative Medicine for the Air Force Surgeon General. In addition to his research activities, Dr Niemtzow practices Medical Acupuncture full-time at Malcolm Grow Medical Center, Andrews Air Force Base, Maryland. He is Chairman of the American Academy of Medical Acupuncture (AAMA) Research Committee.
Richard C. Niemtzow, MD, PhD, MPH
9800 Cherry Hill Rd
College Park, MD 20740
Phone: 301-937-7424 • Fax: 301-937-3205
E-mail: n5ev@aol.com
Professional Address:
Colonel (Dr) Richard C. Niemtzow
Medical Group (AMC)
Malcolm Grow Medical Center
Andrews AFB, MD 20762
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