What is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture consists of the gentle insert
ion and stimulation of thin, disposable, sterile (one time use) needles at strategic points near the surface of the body. The needles are much finer than the familiar hypodermic needles. While many acupuncture patients are initially wary of the claim that acupuncture doesn’t hurt, they soon discover that the experience is quite relaxing.
How does Acupuncture Work?
The National Institute of Health in the United States notes that many researchers are investigating the exact mechanisms of acupuncture. Some of these researchers have attributed the following as to how acupuncture works:
- Changes to the central nervous system during acupuncture sessions alter the regulation of blood pressure and flow as well as body temperature
- Acupuncture stimulates the central nervous system causing neurotransmitters and neurohormones to be released, thereby boosting your body’s natural ability to heal itself
- Acupuncture reduces pain by releasing endorphins, which naturally occur in the body’s pain control system, into the central nervous system.
