Abstract: Evidence-based medicine (EBM) is an excellent reference for the guide of clinical decisions, through which medical practice can be improved. As an important part of Traditional Chinese medicine, acupuncture functions as a complex treatment system instead of rigid, linear or mechanical organizations, and its complexity is exactly the source of innovation. How does EBM affect acupuncture innovation? EBM helps acupuncture research to be under control, while it may be the great excuse to put barriers to the innovation for acupuncture treatment.