A case study exploration of the value of acupuncture as an adjunct treatment for patients diagnosed with schizophrenia: results and future study design.

Objective: This study explored the effects of individualized acupuncture when used alongside routine care for patients diagnosed with schizophrenia in order to assess the possibility and nature of potential benefits for this patient group. This study used an exploratory case study approach that included both quantitative and qualitative research tools, in order to generate a hypothesis questioning the possible benefits of acupuncture and develop future study designs.

Methods: Eleven patients diagnosed with schizophrenia were given multiple validated quantitative and qualitative assessments before, during and after a 10-week acupuncture intervention.