How Does Acupuncture Work?

Acupuncture consists of placing hair-thin needles at specific points on the body to promote healing and improve functioning. In traditional terms, acupuncture stimulates and balances the qi, or energy, of the body. This energy runs in channels throughout the body and along it’s surface to nourish the tissues. This flow of energy can become blocked or depleted resulting in pain or illness. Acupuncture helps the body’s internal organs and muscle tissues to regain a healthy circulation of energy.

In modern scientific terms, acupuncture stimulates the nervous system and induces neurotransmitter and hormone release. This either changes the experience of pain or triggers the release of other chemicals which influence the body’s regulating system.

From both perspectives acupuncture is widely accepted as an effective treatment for many physical illnesses, as well as psychological and emotional disharmonies.