Demystifying Chinese Medicine: How does Acupuncture work?
Acupuncture, a foundational practice in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), has gained popularity worldwide for its ability to alleviate various health issues, including pain. But how does Acupuncture work? How exactly does this technique involving tiny needles lead to recovery, repair and healing? In this post, we'll delve into the mechanisms behind acupuncture and how it can promote health and wellbeing in the body.
Acupuncture through a Historical lens
Before surgery and autopsy, way before understanding of germ theory and how the body works physiologically, ancient Chinese society developed their own paradigm or way of looking at the body and its functions. Understanding Acupuncture really is about an Eastern Medicine paradigm compared to a Western Medicine paradigm through a historical lens where discoveries about the body were new.
So think, about it this way; Leonardo Da Vinci dissected around 30 human corpses between 1490 and 1513. He fully intended to publish his findings, and had he done so, he would have transformed the study of anatomy in Europe. But due to the macabre nature of this activity in those times, it was not revealed until much later.
The oldest and one of the cardinal texts in Chinese Medicine, predates Da Vinci's work. The Huang Di Nei Jing. (Yellow Emperor's Inner Classic), was written around 100 BCE.
Principles of Acupuncture
What these ancient Chinese medical texts discussed was the body's physiology according to this Eastern paradigm of thought - Qi.
Acupuncture is based on the philosophy that the body's vital energy, known as Qi (pronounced "chee"), flows through meridians, or energy channels. When this flow is disrupted or blocked, it can lead to pain, illness, or imbalance. Acupuncture aims to restore the harmonious flow of Qi, promoting overall well-being.
Fast forward to present day - the tradition of learning, becoming qualified and practicing Acupuncture still happens today in universities and private colleges. We have more rigorous training of Acupuncturists that involve modern health sciences such as anatomy, physiology, biology, physics and chemistry. They also do over 500 hours of practical clinic hours before completing their qualifications.
The addition of Modern Science's query and fascination of "How does Acupuncture work?", means there have been numerous clinical trials and scientific research papers published to report these findings. Here's what they have found:
Needle Stimulation: A Catalyst for Healing
1. Triggering Neural Responses: Inserting acupuncture needles at specific points stimulates sensory nerves, sending signals to the brain. This prompts the release of endorphins, the body's natural painkillers, which help reduce pain and induce a sense of well-being.
2. Balancing Neurotransmitters: Acupuncture has been shown to modulate the levels of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine, which play crucial roles in regulating mood, sleep, and pain perception.
3. Regulating the Autonomic Nervous System: Acupuncture has a regulatory effect on the autonomic nervous system, which controls involuntary bodily functions like heart rate, digestion, and respiratory rate. This can lead to a state of relaxation and reduced stress.
Enhancing Blood Flow and Circulation
- Dilating Blood Vessels: Acupuncture can cause blood vessels to dilate, improving blood circulation. This is essential for delivering oxygen and nutrients to cells and tissues, promoting healing and reducing inflammation.
- Reducing Inflammation: Acupuncture has been shown to decrease levels of pro-inflammatory markers, contributing to a reduction in inflammation and promoting tissue repair.
Restoring Energetic Balance
Returning to Traditional Chinese Medicine's origins and in its own words, Acupuncture is also:
- Harmonising Yin and Yang: In TCM, health is achieved through the balance of Yin (nourishing, nutritive, cooling energy) and Yang (active, dynamic, warming energy). Acupuncture helps balance these energies overall in the body.
- Clearing Blockages and Stagnation: By inserting needles at specific points, acupuncture can clear blockages in the meridians, allowing Qi to flow freely and addressing areas of stagnation.
If you're considering Acupuncture as part of your health care plan for pain, headaches, sports injuries or other symptoms you don't need a referral from your doctor. In Australia, private health funds may cover Acupuncture in some policies for rebates. If you're on Sydney's Northern Beaches, near Manly, Dee Why, Frenchs Forest or Mona Vale you can connect with me and make an appointment online here. I have been in practice since 2003 and am a AHPRA registered Acupuncturist and health fund provider.
References:
1. Ernst, E., & Lee, M. S. (2011). Acupuncture for rheumatic conditions: An overview of systematic reviews. Rheumatology, 50(5), 869-876.
2. Zhang, R., Lao, L., Ren, K., & Berman, B. M. (2014). Mechanisms of acupuncture–electroacupuncture on persistent pain. Anesthesiology, 120(2), 482-503.
3. Zhao, Z. Q. (2008). Neural mechanism underlying acupuncture analgesia. Progress in neurobiology, 85(4), 355-375.
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