How Does Acupuncture Work and What Benefits Does it Have?

How Does Acupuncture Work and What Benefits Does it Have?

Acupuncture in its simplest form is about stimulating acupuncture points on the body near to the surface of the skin by inserting thin metal needles to alter the biochemical and physiological output of a body to help reduce pain and stimulate overall health. Acupuncture points are areas that are specifically designated as spots that stimulate electrical sensitivity. By inserting the acupuncture needles into these points it activates a variety of sensory receptors that stimulate nerves to “talk” to the hypothalamic-pituitary system in the brain through a series of impulses.

The hypothalamic-pituitary system is responsible for communicating with the rest of the body through endorphins and neurotransmitters that are the body’s way of eliminating pain signals through hormones. Endorphins are far more effective at eliminating pain in the body than many of the common drug options such as morphine, vicodin, acetaminophen and percocet. Using the process of acupuncture to relieve pain is not only more effective than a drug prescription, but it is non-habit forming or dangerous in any way either.

Sessions with a skilled and highly trained acupuncturist can help in a variety of ways with the most prevalent being pain relief. However, acupuncture can also help to improve circulation, reduce inflammation in the body, relax and release muscles prone to spasms, and improve the overall T-cell count in the body which can help to boost the immune system and help prevent or fight illnesses and diseases. As an added plus, the endorphins released during acupuncture also effect the body’s hormonal system, which can help to not only relieve things like back pain, arthritis and physical injuries, but issues like PMS and infertility as well. Acupuncture can also be used to treat depression also because the endorphins and neurotransmitters released during the process help to stimulate serotonin levels in the brain, which can help to balance a person’s emotions and help to stabilize them in the long run.

The benefits of acupuncture are so high in number that they really can’t all be mentioned in one article, the list is so big. Acupuncture stimulates the body in various ways to help heal it and get it back on track to where it should be. Whether a person goes to an acupuncturist for pain management, fertility issues, depression or what have you; the success of the session will lead to a variety of health improvements that will aid in the wellbeing of the person for both the short term and the long term.