Acupuncture involves inserting hair-thin needles into the body to affect the flow of energy. As with the whole of Chinese medicine, acupuncture’s explicit purpose is to balance the body by up- and down-regulating channels and organs. The National Institutes of Health and the World Health Organization have recognized its use as effective for a range of conditions. Below are some of evidential bases for just how it works.
Increases the flow of blood to the needle site : This means more oxygen, plasma, and white blood cells reach the area (a twisted ankle, for example) to improve overall tissue function and to assist with the healing process, including the removal of dead tissue and waste products.
Stimulates the brain and central nervous system: Research shows that stimulation of acupoints can cause an increase in brain metabolic activity. It also stimulates the release of endorphins, the body’s natural pain relievers.
Stimulates the endocrine system: Research shows that acupuncture can affect the way endocrine glands are modulated thereby regulating the secretion of various hormones.
Stimulates trigger points: Studies show that more than 70% of acupuncture points coincide with common trigger points, or sore spots in a taut band of muscle tissue that produce pain and often accompany chronic pain disorders. Trigger points are thought to be caused by acute trauma or repetitive microtrauma.
Stimulates immune system: Research demonstrates that acupuncture can stimulate or depress an immune response in animals. Experts think it is possible to stimulate an immune response in the treatment of AIDs and to suppress it to treat rhinitis, asthma, and other allergic disorders caused by an immune system that over-reacts.
Acupuncture practice is comprised of styles that stem from application of various systems theories that may be evidence- or Classically based. CCCA favors the use of few needles that are distal and cross-referenced before and after insertion through palpation. It is a technique taught by Kiiko Matsumoto, but which has applicability for testing any given point vis-a-vis pain or tension in any part of the body, but particularly the abdomen and throat. This means that patients receive truly individualized sessions for immediately noticeable results.
References:
National Institutes on Health
World Health Organization