Acupuncture can successfully treat post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), according to a recent article online at KWCH-TV.

The article interviews Dr. Lori Jones, an acupuncturist. Jones reported that 97 percent of her clients who suffer from PTSD recover in just a few weeks from acupuncture therapy.

PTSD is an anxiety disorder that can develop after exposure to a terrifying event or ordeal. Violent personal assaults, natural or human-caused disasters, accidents, or military combat often trigger PTSD.

A pilot study published in June 2007 issue of The Journal of Nervous and Mental Disease concurs.

The researchers studied 73 people with PTSD and found that acupuncture provided treatment effects similar to cognitive behavioral therapy.

Another study looked at PTSD among veterans. The story highlighted in an October 2008 article in USA Today, also showed that “acupuncture relieved PTSD symptoms and eased pain and depression.” Additionally, the study found that improvements were fairly rapid.

The article said that about one-third of sailors and Marines use some types of alternative therapies, mostly herbal remedies.

According to Jones, acupuncture effectively treats mental and emotional issues including PTSD as well as attention deficit disorder and autism.