What is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture involves the insertion of fine needles into specific spots to stimulate the body to heal itself. By stimulating specific points on the body with heat, pressure, or very fine needles, acupuncture practitioners are able to restore healthy function, which help resolve symptoms and often reverses disease.

In terms of physiology and biochemistry, acupuncture has been shown to stimulate nerves and connective tissue resulting in profound effects on the nervous system including regulation of key areas of the brain. This improved function results in the body producing its own natural chemicals involved in pain relief and the reduction of inflammation as well as releasing neurotransmitters that create a feeling of relaxation and well-being. Advanced techniques such as fMRI brain imaging and proteomics (proteins produced in a cell or tissue type) are continuing to add to a deeper understanding of how acupuncture helps the body to heal itself.