Large randomised trials demonstrating the immediate and sustained effect of acupuncture are missing
The value of complementary acupuncture in the treatment of inflammatory diseases is still questioned.
the usefulness of acupuncture still has to be demonstrated in large randomised trials.
Evidence from large randomised trials, including follow-up measurements of mediators of inflammation, both at the site of inflammation and in the periphery, should be obtained to prove the immunologic effects of acupuncture
The acupuncture-controlled release of neuropeptides from nerve endings and subsequent vasodilative and anti-inflammatory effects through calcitonine gene-related peptide is hypothesised.
So there are a lot of recent studys showing that accupuncture does actually reduce inflammation. I think there are a lot more going on now too.
Here's one
I mean from the study you linked
It's not very solid evidence
It isnt rock solid but every study i saw pointed in the direction of acupuncture working.