Acupuncture compared with toothpick stimulation

Hi all,

I recently came across a large-scale study (with seemingly robust sample size, stats, etc.) that makes a comparison between customized acupuncture, standard acupuncture, simulated acupuncture (toothpick stimulation) and usual care in treating chronic lower back pain. The results suggested that simulated acupuncture (toothpick stimulation) doesn't differ significantly from customized and standard acupuncture in their effects on pain relief, etc. Time magazine has published an article that equates acupuncture as being no more superior than toothpick. (http://www.time.com/time/health/article/0,8599,1897636,00.ht...). As an acupuncturist, I would like to challenge the validity of their claim and elicit opinions within our community regarding this study. As I'm not very well-versed with the subject of acupuncture research design, it'd be great to have someone like Brandon comment on this, along with any other thoughts you may have. I've attached this study with this article.

Thanks,

Kent