Acupuncture has been used for thousands of years as part of Traditional Chinese Medicine. While it’s long been respected for its holistic benefits, many people today want to understand the scientific basis behind it. What is actually happening in the body when those tiny needles are inserted? Is there a measurable effect, or is it simply a placebo?
At Arco Healthcare Clinic in Widnes, we believe in treatments that are both evidence-informed and patient-centred. Here’s what modern research tells us about how acupuncture works from a scientific perspective.
How Does Acupuncture Work?
From a traditional point of view, acupuncture involves stimulating specific points on the body to restore the flow of Qi, the body’s natural energy. But from a medical and scientific standpoint, the explanation shifts to neurophysiology, biochemistry, and pain modulation.
Here are some of the key mechanisms researchers have identified:
1. Stimulation of the Nervous System
When a needle is inserted into an acupuncture point, it activates sensory nerves under the skin and in the muscles. These nerves send signals to the brain and spinal cord, triggering a cascade of responses. This includes the release of neurotransmitters, which play a role in reducing pain and promoting healing.
2. Endorphin Release
One of the most well-documented effects of acupuncture is the release of endorphins—the body’s natural painkillers. These chemicals reduce the perception of pain and promote a sense of well-being, much like the effects of exercise or laughter.
3. Increased Blood Flow
Research using imaging techniques has shown that acupuncture can increase local circulation around the needle site. Improved blood flow means better delivery of oxygen and nutrients to tissues, which can aid in the healing process.
4. Regulation of the Autonomic Nervous System
Acupuncture appears to influence the autonomic nervous system, which controls unconscious bodily functions such as heart rate, digestion, and stress response. This may explain why acupuncture is often reported to improve sleep, reduce anxiety, and help with digestive issues.
5. Modulation of Pain Pathways
Functional MRI (fMRI) studies have shown that acupuncture can affect activity in parts of the brain associated with pain processing. This supports the idea that acupuncture changes how the brain perceives and processes pain signals.
What Conditions Are Supported by Research?
According to both the World Health Organization (WHO) and the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), there is clinical evidence supporting the use of acupuncture for certain conditions, including:
- Chronic tension-type headaches and migraines
- Chronic lower back pain
- Knee osteoarthritis
- Neck pain
- Postoperative pain
- Nausea (particularly after chemotherapy or surgery)
While ongoing research continues to explore its full potential, the scientific community increasingly recognises acupuncture as a useful complementary therapy for both physical and mental health concerns.
Does It Hurt?
This is one of the most common questions we hear at Arco Healthcare Clinic. The answer is no—most patients report little to no discomfort. The needles are extremely thin, much finer than those used for injections or blood tests. Some people feel a brief tingling or dull ache at the site, but this usually passes quickly.
What to Expect at Your Session
Your practitioner will begin with a detailed consultation to understand your symptoms, health history, and goals. Based on this, they will select specific acupuncture points that correspond to the areas of concern. Treatment is carried out in a calm, relaxing environment and typically lasts between 30 to 60 minutes.
In Summary
While acupuncture may have its roots in ancient practices, modern science is continuing to validate its effectiveness and uncover how it works. From releasing natural painkillers to regulating nervous system function, the tiny needle can have a big impact.
If you’re curious about how acupuncture could help with your health or wellbeing, we welcome you to contact Arco Healthcare Clinic in Widnes. Our experienced practitioners are here to guide you through the process and tailor treatment to your individual needs.
Book an acupuncture session today and experience the benefits for yourself. Discover the harmony within—one needle at a time. For further information regarding treatment contact our experienced reception team or alternatively book here for the next available appointment. To claim back treatment cost from your healthcare policies provider, we advised checking the governing body of our registered acupuncturist is accepted.
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