Knowledge, attitudes and perceptions of biopuncture and its use in clinical practice by registered homoeopaths

Abstract

Introduction Biopuncture is an injectable therapy which employs ultra-diluted biotherapeutic regulators. The proposed means by which biopuncture induces healing is by stimulating the immune system to heal the body. Biopuncture is currently used worldwide in the health sector for treating a variety of diseases, the most common being musculoskeletal complaints. Biopuncture has recently become a popular adjunctive therapeutic method which has been integrated into many homoeopathic healthcare practices in South Africa. There is currently limited literature on biopuncture in a South African context. Most of the existing literature needs to be translated into English. This study allowed homoeopaths to provide useful information about their level of awareness and practical uses of biopuncture. This study also identified existing misconceptions about biopuncture amongst homoeopaths in South Africa. Aim of the study The study aimed to investigate the knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions of registered homoeopathic practitioners regarding biopuncture treatment, and their management of clinical cases with biopuncture as a treatment modality. Methods Data was collected using a self-administered questionnaire. Self-report techniques are the most effective way to gather factual information about participants’ perceptions, knowledge levels, and experiences. This quantitative study employed a convenience sampling method. The participants were homoeopaths who were registered with the Allied Health Professions Council of South Africa (AHPCSA) and were practising in South Africa. There were about 500 homoeopaths who were registered with the Council at the time of the study. The study's desired sample size was n = 225. The questionnaires were distributed electronically with the assistance of AHPCSA. The participants were expected to fill in the forms within two weeks but there was a time extension. The researcher received and collected the responses of the questionnaire forms by email. The data was coded and captured into a Microsoft Excel spreadsheet and the results were analysed using SPSS version 25®. Results The response rate was 35% (n = 77) of the initial sample size. The results showed 72% of the participants understood and had a knowledge of biopuncture. The overall attitude was positive that biopuncture is an appropriate complimentary adjunctive therapy in a homoeopathic practice. The majority (62%) of the participants were using biopuncture in their practice. Chi-squared analysis found that the number of years practised and the use of biopuncture are dependent. The finding was that all of the practitioners who were in practice for less than two years were using biopuncture. Biopuncture has been effectively used as a treatment and to manage clinical cases. A minority of participants (4%) perceived biopuncture to be unhomoeopathic and responded that it should be eliminated from homoeopathic practice. The importance and need for biopuncture technique training before applying it in practice came through as a strong finding, and, therefore, recommendation.