How Does Acupuncture Work?
Acupuncture is a procedure of Chinese medicine tha has been developed over several thousands of years. Ultimately, acupuncture is the insertion of thin needles into the body at specific points or areas to create a specialised effect. The general goal of acupuncture is to restore and improve the flow of Qi in the body. (In oversimplified terms, Qi is the energy, movement, and metabolism of the body’s substances). Thus, acupuncture helps circulate and direct blood, oxygen, nutrients, hormones, fluid, and waste products to where they need to go. Our bodies have their own physiological mechanisms designed to bring them back to a state of equilibrium and optimal health. All we need to do is clear the obstacles or blockages that are preventing natural healing and let the body take care of the rest. This is the work of an acupuncturist.
But what really happens in the body?
The puncture of the needle into the skin and body’s tissues creates a ‘micro trauma’ which stimulates the immune system to release immunes cells, such as fibroblasts, to facilitate healing. Think of the needle puncture as technique to send an intentional signal to the brain via nervous system. This alerts the brain that healing attention is required in a certain area of the body. The nervous system then releases and distributes natural painkilling chemicals, such as endorphins, norepinephrine and enkephalins. In the local tissue, acupuncture needles stimulate the nerves to release neuropeptides, which promote vasodilation and increased circulation. The release of oxytocin and serotonin (the feel-good hormones) during this process also help to reduce sympathetic activity (stress response) and increase parasympathetic activity (restful healing state).
These are just a few mechanisms of acupuncture, and scientific research continues to discover and corroborate further healing effects of this incredible system.
Still have questions? The best way to understand the effects of acupuncture is to experience a treatment for yourself!
Veronika Peovska
(BHSc Acupuncture)
“To be skilled at nurturing one’s nature and wellbeing is to treat disease before it arises.” - SUN SIMIAO
