Scientific mechanism of action (1)
Research has shown that acupuncture can activate the endogenous opioid mechanism, thus trigger our innate pain relieving system. Acupuncture may also stimulate gene expression of neuropeptides, thus the ability for acupuncture to alter body’s metabolism, behavior, pain threshold, memory and learning. Lastly, functional magnetic resonance was able to demonstrate that specific brain structures and region can be stimulated via the acupuncture. (1)
Evidence behind acupuncture (1)
The efficacy of acupuncture has been evaluated by numerous randomized controlled trials, systematic reviews and meta-analysis. Through these trials, acupuncture has been proven to be efficacious in:
1) Emesis secondary to surgery or chemotherapy
2) Nausea secondary to pregnancy
Mixed results can be noted when determining the efficacy of acupuncture for the treatment of chronic pain, back pain and headache.
1) Emesis secondary to surgery or chemotherapy
2) Nausea secondary to pregnancy
Mixed results can be noted when determining the efficacy of acupuncture for the treatment of chronic pain, back pain and headache.
Reference:
1. Kaptchuk TJ. Acupuncture: theory, efficacy, and practice. Ann Intern Med. 2002 Mar 5;136(5):374-83.
1. Kaptchuk TJ. Acupuncture: theory, efficacy, and practice. Ann Intern Med. 2002 Mar 5;136(5):374-83.