The Science Behind Acupuncture: How Does it Really Work?
Needling acupuncture points stimulates the nervous system to release endorphin and serotonin. These natural chemicals change the experience of pain and influence the body’s own internal regulating system. Many of the main points used such as Stomach 36 and Liver 3 are near nerve endings. This could explain their effectiveness at treating a wide variety of symptoms. Acupuncture is a very old medical art in itself, with origins dating back approximately 5000 years.
Fascia (connective tissue) is what connects the acupuncture channels and navigates the path they take from the internal to the external, interweaving through the various channels and organs. This explains how acupuncture can influence the various organs and bodily systems.
MRI imaging has shown a change in the function of the brain and how it perceives pain when the acupuncture needles are in. I believe it is a combination of these various theories as well as the intention of the practitioner and the receptiveness of the patient to heal.
