How does acupuncture work?
Not sure how all this works? Or if it works at all. Let me help explain.
In the most recent research, science is still unsure of how acupuncture exactly works in the body. But that doesn’t mean acupuncture doesn’t have a therapeutic effect. In fact, there are many effective pharmaceutical treatments being used every day that scientists aren’t sure how they work. Some of these medication anomalies include the use of acetaminophen for pain relief, lithium for bipolar disorder, and penicillin for infections. No one knows for sure how they work in the body, but they have proven over time to be therapeutically beneficial, just like acupuncture.
Acupuncture has a systemic effect on the body
Acupuncture has a direct effect on many body systems starting locally, with needle stimulation, spreading systemically throughout the body. This process affects:
Local connective (fascia) and muscle tissue. Acupuncture increases local blood circulation, stimulates sensory nerves, and an immune response stimulating lymph flow to the area.
Central Nervous System (CNS). Stimulating a release of neurochemicals in the brain called endorphins helping regulate and decrease pain.
Peripheral Nervous System (PNS). Activating motor nerves controlling voluntary muscle movement, and sensory nerves stimulating nerve endings that cover the body.
Autonomic Nervous System (ANS). By controlling cardiac muscles, the heart rate and blood pressure are lowered, the smooth muscles in the viscera are stimulated and digestion begins, and the endocrine glands are regulated back to homeostasis.
Sympathetic and Parasympathetic Nervous Systems. Restoring balance by calming the sympathetic activities (fight or flight) and activating parasympathetic functions (rest and digest).
The human body is made to heal itself.
When it is functioning at its best, the body is in a relaxed, but aware state. The heart easily pumps blood throughout the body, muscle tissue is supportive but not tense, and the heart rate is variable and steady. The viscera are stimulated yet relaxed to support digestion, hormones are regulated and in a state of balance. Your immune system can readily handle whatever comes its way. Unfortunately, with the stress of our busy western society, the influence of the poor nutrition of the standard American diet, the prevalence of poor work-life balance, and poor sleep most people do not function in a way that supports optimal bodily functioning. Even simple wound healing can be affected when you aren’t functioning your best.
Fortunately, acupuncture directly aids in this process. By stimulating the nervous system, increasing blood flow, boosting the immune system, and regulating hormones back to homeostasis. Acupuncture supports the body to function optimally. The way it is meant to.
Still not completely convinced? The website ‘Evidence-based Acupuncture’ is a great resource for the latest acupuncture research. www.evidencebasedacupuncture.org/acupuncture-scientific-evidence/
