Aside from finding that acupuncture is an effective alternative treatment, researchers have also tried to answer the question, “How does acupuncture work?” Each condition and individual requires the stimulation of different acupuncture points. The mechanisms for treating back pain may not be the same as those for treating infertility. However, there are general ways in which acupuncture works on the body as a whole.
From the perspective of traditional Chinese medicine, acupuncture works by bringing the body, mind, and spirit into balance. Thin needles are inserted into various acupuncture points that are directly related to conditions and body functions. Everyone has a stream of life energy, known as qi (pronounced chee), that courses through their body. Qi flows along channels called meridians. When a blockage disrupts the flow of qi along the meridians, or the qi is imbalanced, it can lead to various ailments. The meridians encompass all of the internal organs, which is why the body is so sensitive to disruptions. A blockage in one organ can cause illness in another, because all aspects of a human are connected. In order to develop an unrestricted flow of qi, there must be a balance between the opposing yin and yang energies.
By needling very specific acupuncture points, the qi can be manipulated. It may move from areas of excess to balance areas that are deficient. When balance is achieved, there is a general sense of wellbeing and health is improved. The needles unblock any areas of obstruction. This allows for an optimal flow along the meridians to nourish all of the organs. Imbalances can affect the way the organs produce energy and absorb nutrients, oxygen, and fresh blood, while also hindering digestion. Balance encourages the body to heal itself naturally, which improves functioning. For example, because each aspect of the body is connected, a kidney imbalance could manifest itself as anxiety and insecurity, fatigue, or even infertility. When treated, needles are inserted along the kidney meridian to bring the flow of qi back into harmony. If left untreated, other organs will suffer the effects as well. Not only does acupuncture alleviate the symptoms of a condition, but it addresses the underlying root cause to manipulate the energy thus creating overall wellness.
Acupuncture is looked at from a more scientific angle in the Western world. It is believed that the insertion of needles at certain areas of the body either stimulates or inhibits the central nervous system. This in turn influences the internal organs via nerve reflex pathways. The nervous system also releases chemicals, opioids and endorphins, which can dull pain and decrease symptoms of a variety of conditions. Acupuncture is thought to cause a discharge of chemicals and hormones that affect the body’s internal mechanisms, promote a natural healing response, and bring about biochemical balance. Stimulating the adrenal gland by way of the pituitary gland, can trigger a cascade of anti-inflammatory chemicals, which further promote healing for pain and chronic conditions.
Other theories have been developed in an attempt to definitively answer the question: What does acupuncture do? As research progresses, more information may be available as to how acupuncture truly works. Regardless of its underlying mechanism, it is agreed upon that the ancient system of medicine brings about good health, a balance of mind, body, and spirit, and a sense of wellbeing.
