HOW DOES ACUPUNCTURE INFLUENCE OUR SYSTEMS?
We haven’t been able to fully explain the myriad of effects and mechanisms of how acupuncture works from a biomedical perspective. It can be difficult to comprehend how stimulating a specific point on the body can lead to such broad and powerful outcomes. It is a concept so foreign to our Western perspective on the body that I believe it has kept many people from exploring it. Yet, the growing interest and curiosity in this ancient and holistic practice is evident as more people seek treatment options that work to address core issues with little to no negative side effects. As a practitioner of Chinese medicine, I find one of the most interesting and challenging aspects is to make this work relatable and understandable for people. In discussing some of the theories and observations of modern research on how acupuncture influences our systems, perhaps we can deepen our understanding and value of this thorough and thoughtful medicine.
Acupuncture has been successful in helping with a variety of issues that range from physical ailments to emotional concerns. It is common to see pain relief, the reduction of inflammation, and an overall restoration of homeostasis and improved functionality occur. People often experience concurrent and unexpected improvements in other aspects of their health while being treating for a particular symptom. They come in for help with their knee pain and find that their sleep has also improved, their digestion is better and their energy levels are more stable. This phenomenon speaks to the systemic and global reaches of restoring more homeostasis in the system and the cascading effects of that.
There are a number of different theories and observations as to how acupuncture influences the body, but first let us take a closer look at the acupuncture points themselves. Research has shown these areas to contain particularly high concentrations of sensory nerves, mast cells, fine lymphatic vessels and fine blood vessels. The outer layer of skin is slightly thinner with a lower electrical resistance and therefore increased conductivity. Basically, these concentrated areas have a lot going on in terms of nerve supply, blood supply and immune response potential. These areas have different qualities and characteristics because of the confluences of cell types and structures, making them points of access to influence change.
Acupuncture has been shown to increase blood flow throughout the body. This may not seem like a big deal, but when you consider what the body requires to heal, the role of proper blood flow becomes paramount. Vital nutrients, hormones, oxygen, chemical messengers and painkillers are delivered via the bloodstream. There are a number of reasons why blood flow can become compromised. An injury, chronic conditions, constricted soft tissue, particular deficiencies or the just the ageing process alone can all contribute to this issue, and working to reestablish a healthy flow is often one of the goals of treatment. Acupuncture has been shown to stimulate the peripheral nervous system, which sends signals to the brain to release naturally occurring painkillers such as endorphins, norepinephrine and enkephalin. The intent of treatment is not only about addressing the perception of pain or symptomatic discomfort, it is also about improving the healing response of an imbalanced area.
Numerous other mechanisms have been explored looking at the body’s response to acupuncture that I plan to discuss in future articles. It is my hope that strengthening our understanding of what this medicine has to offer will allow us to incorporate more of its wisdom into our current system of wellness and healthcare.
For further information or to schedule an appointment please contact Ramie Holmquist, L.Ac of Saint Sophia Acupuncture at Alison Palmer Physical Therapy and Wellness Center (#307-752-1799). We are located in the Cimarron Lodge at the bottom of lift 7. Wellness is the full integration of mind, body and spirit. We look forward to helping you towards a healthier life.