Acupuncture is rooted in ancient traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), and is perceived as age-old wisdom to Westerners. However, Eastern healers have used this ancient practice to relieve pain and balance the body’s energy systems. While the principles behind acupuncture may sound a little esoteric, modern science presents an increasing body of research findings. Use this helpful guide to learn more about the science of acupuncture and how it works.

The Science Behind Acupuncture: How It Works

Understanding The Science of Acupuncture and the Role of Acupoints

Acupuncture is a process of inserting sterile, thin needles into the body at key acupoints. It follows the principle that there are pathways in which energy flows through the body called meridians. Disturbances or blockages of this energy flow may result in:

• Pain
• Diseases
• Ill health

Our physiology stays healthy and balanced if the flow of Qi throughout the body faces no barriers.

Modern science explains more about the mechanisms involved in acupuncture. Acupoints are rich in concentration of nerve endings, muscle fibers, and connective tissue. Acupuncture needles stimulate these specific points in the human body, creating an avalanche effect of physiologic responses promoting healing.

Neurotransmitter Release

The stimulation of acupoints during acupuncture treatment activates the central nervous system. This transmits impulses via pathways to the brain and spinal cord. In turn, the hypothalamus releases neurotransmitters, including serotonin and dopamine.

Endorphins and enkephalins released into the blood feature a pain-relieving chemical that decreases pain and increases relaxation.

Blood Flow and Healing

Acupuncture increases blood flow. Inserting needles into specific acupuncture points on the skin and muscular system draws blood supply to the treated area. New blood with oxygen, nutrients, and immune cells initiates tissue repair and activates healing processes.

Through improved circulation, it is shown that acupuncture:

• Enhances muscle recovery
• Removes metabolic wastes from the body
• Increases the flow of energy
• Reduces Pain

Modulation of the Immune System

An interesting feature of acupuncture is its relation to modulating the immune system. Acupuncture alters the activity of immunocytes, macrophages, neutrophils, and lymphocytes, all of which safeguard the body against infection and disease while strengthening tissue repair processes.

The Science of Acupuncture And Balancing of the Autonomic Nervous System

Acupuncture modulates the autonomic nervous system, which controls digestion, circulation, and breathing. Endocrinologically, acupuncture rebalances energy systems by restituting a balance between the sympathetic and parasympathetic limbs of the nervous system, resetting it to optimal homeostasis.

Hormonal Regulation

Another benefit of acupuncture is that it can treat stress, anxiety, menstruation, metabolic problems, and hormonal disorders. Acupuncture helps the body secrete and regulate certain hormones, such as cortisol, estrogen, and testosterone.

Modulation of these hormones provides relief from symptoms of stress, anxiety, and depression. By optimizing emotional and physical balance, you can experience relief without side effects.

To the Future: How Acupuncture Influences Western Medicine

Acupuncture continues to enjoy acceptance from Western-trained physicians. Numerous scientific studies prove this. Studies published in JAMA and The Lancet evidenced acupuncture therapy treatment options as a panacea for pain, migraines, and anxiety.

Clinical trials and meta-analyses provide a solid volume of evidence about the benefits associated with acupuncture in modern medicine. Some insurance providers may also cover acupuncture treatment for specific issues.

With scientific validation, acupuncture becomes a helpful piece of the holistic health puzzle. It spans traditional and contemporary practices in the art of healing.

Southlake Natural Family Wellness

Our mission is to support the health and well-being of our patients.

We offer individualized, comprehensive holistic care including acupuncture, herbal recommendations, customized nutritional counseling, allergy elimination (NAET), whole food supplements, lifestyle suggestions, moxibustion, and cupping. As well as helping couples get pregnant and STAY pregnant by supporting all the paths to conception.

About Farrah Hamraie

Farrah Hamraie, L.Ac, MOM, Dipl.OM (NCCAOM), is licensed and board-certified in Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine in the State of Texas with a Masters of Oriental Medicine from the Dallas College of Oriental Medicine.

She is also a Diplomat of NCCAOM (the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine), a Board Certified Acupuncturist, a Chinese Herbalist, and a member of the American Association of Oriental Medicine.