[Dear Dr. Gott]

Dear Dr. Gott: A relative has been using acupuncture for the treatment of depression and arthritis. Is this appropriate therapy?

Dear Reader: I dont know.

After much enthusiasm about this technique, based on Chinese reports of patients undergoing major surgery under acupuncture anesthesia, American doctors ardor has cooled somewhat. Certainly, there is a place for acupuncture, but its role is not well defined.

Without a doubt, acupuncture will not cure depression or arthritis, although it may improve symptoms in some patients. In any case, acupuncture is safe when performed by a reputable professional. Therefore, if your relative experienced relief of melancholy and pain, fine. However, I believe that antidepressant drugs and anti-inflammatory medicine would probably be more appropriate therapy. These should be prescribed by a physician who is familiar with her health.