How does it work?

Acupuncture involves the insertion of fine wires (needles) into specific spots to stimulate the body to heal itself. It can be explained simply as balancing Yin and Yang, a paradigm of health and disease that maps very closely to the Western concept of ‘homeostasis’. By stimulating specific points on the body with heat, pressure, or very fine needles, acupuncture practitioners are able to restore healthy function, thus resolving symptoms and reversing disease (Acupuncture Now Foundation, 2019).

Classical understanding translated into modern evidence tells us that “qi flow” corresponds to nerve transmission, connective tissue planes, metabolic components carried in blood such as oxygen, hormones, neurotransmitters and nutrients as well as the functional energy of an organ system, depending on the context in which it is used.

"Acupuncture has been shown to stimulate nerves and connective tissue resulting in profound effects on the nervous system including regulation of key areas of the brain. This improved function results in the body producing its own natural chemicals involved in pain relief and the reduction of inflammation as well as releasing neurotransmitters that create a feeling of relaxation and well-being. Advanced techniques such as fMRI brain imaging and proteomics are continuing to add to a deeper understanding of how acupuncture helps the body to heal itself"
(Acupuncture Now Foundation, 2019).