Modern theories on why acupuncture works
The great mystery that faces Chinese Medicine today isn’t whether it works or not (that is well established), it is why it works.
Acupuncture strengthens the immune system
The body responds to the needle by increasing blood flow to the area, stimulating the production of white blood cells and anti-body levels. This in turn strengthens the immune system.
Stimulates endorphins
Acupuncture stimulates the secretion of endorphins in the body. Endorphins are the body’s natural painkillers, up to 10x stronger than morphine.
Affects neurotransmitters
Stimulated by Acupuncture, Neurotransmitters such as Serotonin and Noradrenalin help the body cope with stress. This is why Acupuncture is successful with depression and mood disorders.
Affects circulation
Acupuncture can help to regulate blood flow. It has the effect of constricting or dilating blood vessels; this may be caused by the body’s release of vasodilators (such as histamine) in response to Acupuncture.
The Gate Control Theory
According to this theory, pain signals must pass through a number of high traffic “gates” as they move from the area of injury to the spinal cord, and up to the brain. These nerve highways can handle only a limited number of nerve signals at one time. Acupuncture generates competing stimulus and the overload prevents the pain signals from reaching the brain. This is how Acupuncture can be performed as an anesthetic substitute in operations.