Acupuncture is quickly gaining in popularity. Because of its success, it’s recently gained the attention of researchers in America and Europe. In China, it dates back to 2500 B.C., but here in the United States, acupuncture is just beginning to make a breakthrough. It’s one of the most popular forms of alternative medicine, but the exact mechanism behind placing hair-thin needles in very specific points isn’t comprehensible to modern medical practitioners.

So much emphasis is being placed on researching acupuncture because it works. People are coming to acupuncturists with ailments such as back and neck pain, migraines, nausea, arthritis, infertility, hormone problems, depression, and even addictions. The Chinese explanation is that the body contains pathways called “meridians” that circulate blood and energy together through the entire body. Meridians can be obstructed by poor diet, stress, bad posture, or unhealthy lifestyle habits. This imbalance leads to illness and pain. By gently inserting these painless needles just barely into the skin, proper energy flow is restored. American medical researchers have found the insertion of the needles into these specific points does trigger different parts of the brain to fire and release natural pain-relieving chemicals and substances that allow the body to heal.

More than 60 percent of people who see acupuncturists are looking for pain relief, but it’s also gained popularity for treating people for weight loss. In a recent study done in Poland using auricular acupuncture, they found using the points on the ear can help send a message to the brain telling you that you’re full and can even help curb cravings. Hormone problems and infertility also are being treated using traditional Chinese medicine because of the success in alleviating symptoms without the risk of side effects associated with hormone replacement therapy. A recent study in Germany showed women who were undergoing in vitro fertilization and acupuncture had a 43 percent rate of pregnancy, compared to only 26 percent of those without acupuncture.

No other medical remedy has survived the test of time like acupuncture. Many diets, medications, and therapies have come and gone; however, acupuncture’s effectiveness has caused it to continue gaining popularity around the world. To see if acupuncture can help you with your health concerns, be sure to contact a certified acupuncturist. TPW