Efficacy of Traditional Acupuncture Compared to Biofeedback Therapy in Fecal Incontinence: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Fecal incontinence has a devastating impact on quality of life and imposes a substantial socioeconomic burden. Best medical therapy, including biofeedback therapy, improves mild symptoms with minimal impact on moderate to severe symptoms. Surgical management for incontinence carries a degree of morbidity, resulting in low uptake and acceptability. Although acupuncture is common practice in Singapore for numerous medical conditions, its role in fecal incontinence is relatively novel. In our local context, however, acupuncture is accessible, inexpensive, and potentially well accepted as a treatment strategy.