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Modern Research

Acupuncture has been used to treat millions of people for over 3,000 years. Modern science is proving its value through new studies conducted by leading scientists, hospitals, and medical research facilities from around the world. Acupuncture is receiving wide acceptance as a valid, safe and effective form of health care.
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Neurotransmitter Theory

Acupuncture stimulates secretion of endorphins and enkephalins in the central nervous system influencing immune and pain response.((Neuro-acupuncture, “Scientific evidence of acupuncture revealed”, Cho, ZH., et al., 2001.)) ((Acupuncture – A scientific appraisal, Ernst, E., White, A., 1999, p. 74.)) ((Acupuncture Energetics, “A Clinical Approach for Physicians”, Helms, Dr. J., 1997, pgs 41-42, 66.))
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Autonomic Nervous System Theory

Acupuncture stimulates the release of norepinephrine, acetylcholine, and opioids normalizing nervous activity and reducing pain. Which, essentially promotes a relaxation response.((Anatomy of Neuro-Anatomical Acupuncture, Volume 1, Wong, Dr. J., 1999, p. 34.)) ((National Institute of Health Consensus Conference on Acupuncture, “Acupuncture Activates Endogenous Systems of Analgesia.”, Han, J.S., 1997 (Bethesda, MD).))
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Vascular Interstitial Theory

Acupuncture affects the electrical system of the body by enhancing closed circuit transport in connective tissue. This facilitates healing by allowing transfer of energy between normal and injured tissues.((Acupuncture Energetics, “A Clinical Approach for Physicians”, Helms, Dr. J., 1997, pgs 41-42, 66.))
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Blood Chemistry Theory

Acupuncture improves blood concentrations of triglycerides, cholesterol, and phospholipids, regulating the body toward homeostasis.((Acupuncture Energetics, “A Clinical Approach for Physicians”, Helms, Dr. J., 1997, pgs 41-42, 66.))
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Gate Control Theory

Acupuncture activates non-pain receptors that inhibit transmission of pain signals “gating” pain stimuli.((Neuro-acupuncture, “Scientific Evidence of Acupuncture Revealed”, Cho, ZH., et al., p.116))

According to a study published in the Archives of Internal Medicine, 51% of medical doctors understand the efficacy and value of acupuncture, and medical doctors refer patients to acupuncturists more than any other alternative care provider.((“A review of the incorporation of complementary and alternative medicine by mainstream physicians”, Astin, JA., et. al., Arch Intern Med., 1998; (158).))

In Canada, a 2008 study conducted by the Institute for Work & Health concluded that low back pain, the most common musculoskeletal problem, can be relieved by acupuncture massage, called Tui Na, more effectively than any other treatment.((The Institute for Work & Health, “Massage for Lower Back Pain”, Spine, 2009, July 15: 34 (16).))

A German study published in Archives of Internal Medicine in 2007 covered the largest and most rigorous trial ever undertaken to investigate the analgesic effects of acupuncture versus traditional medical approaches to relieve lower back pain. This study involved 1,802 patients and 13,475 treatments and concluded that acupuncture “constituted a strong treatment alternative to multimodal conventional therapy, giving physicians a promising and effective treatment option for chronic lower back pain.”((“German Acupuncture Trials (GERAC) for Chronic Lower Back Pain”, Archives of Internal Medicine, 2007; 167(17).))

In addition to its effectiveness in pain control, acupuncture has a proven track record of treating a variety of endocrine, circulatory and systemic conditions.

The British Medical Journal in 2008 reported that acupuncture can increase the success rate of in-vitro fertilization and increase the number of viable pregnancies. The additional benefits were listed as reduction in nausea and muscle pain associated with both IVF and pregnancy in general without the use of drugs that might harm the growing fetus.((“Effects of Acupuncture of Pregnancy and Live Births Among Women Undergoing In Vitro Fertilization: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis”, British Medical Journal, 2008: 336: 545, published February 7, 2008.))

In Sweden, a 2008 study involving 215 cancer patients proved that acupuncture can eliminate the need for additional drugs and reduce nausea suffered during radiation treatments.((Department of Medicine and Health Sciences, “Acupuncture Just as Effective Without Needle Puncture”, Science Daily, December 1, 2008, study conducted by the at Linkoping University and the Vardal Institute in Sweden.))

A 2007 study from the University of Heidelberg in Germany concluded that acupuncture treatments can not only relieve the pain associated with bronchial asthma but also help to control outbreaks of allergic asthma as well. It became clearly evident that “acupuncture performed in accordance with the principles of traditional Chinese medicine showed significant immune-modulating effects.”((“Immunomodulatory Effects of Acupuncture in the Treatment of Allergic Asthma: A Randomized Controlled Study”, The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, Vol 6, Issue 6, 2007.))

“There is sufficient evidence of acupuncture’s value to expand its use into conventional medicine.”

– National Institute of Health, 1997 Consensus on Acupuncture