Some possible explanations of the success of acupuncture include:
– Pain is transmitted through small nerve fibers from the skin through the spinal cord on up to the brain, and acupuncture essentially “gates” a pain signal from being set off.
– Acupuncture stimulates production of endorphins that reduce pain.
– The needles stimulate the skin’s connection to internal organs through the viscero-cutaneous reflex.
– The simple presence of human touch may have a lot to do with its success.
Related Articles on Acupuncture:
Army Turning to Alternative Pain Therapies, Especially Acupuncture
Study: Acupuncture Beats Drug in Cutting Days of Migraine
Study: Acupuncture Has No Significant Impact on Back Pain, May Produce Negative Outcomes
