Evaluating traditionally based systems of medicine with particular reference to acupuncture

The evaluation of traditionally-based systems of acupuncture (TBSA) is complex. However, we can assess specific measurement techniques and the diagnostic consistency of traditional Chinese medicine. In the context of randomised controlled trials, the intrinsic value of individual diagnostic systems versus general formulaic prescriptions for specific conditions needs to be carefully thought through, and an individual trial methodology based on the structure of each research proposal needs to be developed. The implications of evaluating TBSAs are discussed in this paper, although it is clear that we have as yet no clear answers to these complex issues.