How Does Acupuncture Work?
The classical Traditional Chinese Medicine explanation for acupuncture is
based on the premise that channels or rivers of vital energy run in regular
patterns throughout the inside of the body and over its surface. These energy
channels, called meridians, are like rivers flowing through the body to irrigate
and nourish the tissues. An obstruction in the movement of these energy
channels is like a dam on a river: this obstruction of energy flow can either be
the cause or the result of disease in the human body and also the human psyche,
or mind.
The energy meridians in the body and mind can be influenced by needling the
acupuncture points: acupuncture needles unblock the obstructed flow of energy
and blood and reestablish normal flow through the meridians, thereby restoring
health and balance. Vital energy or Chi is present in every part of the human
being's body, including in the human mind and brain. Acupuncture treatments
can therefore help the body to correct imbalances in all areas including neuro-muscular-skeletal conditions, internal medicine, and mental and emotional
problems.
The modern scientific explanation for acupuncture is largely based on research
that examines brain activity pre and post acupuncture treatment. This research
shows that needling the acupuncture points stimulates the nervous and
endocrine systems to release chemicals in the muscles, spinal cord, and brain.
These chemicals will either change the experience of pain, or they will trigger
the release of other chemicals and hormones via the endocrine system which
influence the body's own internal regulating system.
The improved energy and biochemical balance produced by acupuncture results
in stimulating the body's natural healing abilities, and in promoting physical
and emotional well-being.
Acupuncture has a successful clinical tradition in Asian culture of many
thousands of years: not only does it work, but it works better than Western
interventions such as surgery and pharmaceutical drugs in many cases.
To learn more or make an appointment, please call 206-625-1374.