1. Neurotransmitter Theory

Acupuncture affects higher brain areas, stimulating the secretion of betaendorphins and enkephalins in the brain and spinal cord. The release of neurotransmitters influences the immune system and the antinociceptive system. 3,4,5

2. Autonomic Nervous System Theory

Acupuncture stimulates the release of norepinephrine, acetylcholine and several types of opioids, affecting changes in their turnover rate, normalizing the autonomic nervous system, and reducing pain. 6,7

3. Gate Control Theory

Acupuncture activates non - nociceptive receptors that inhibit the transmission of nociceptive signals in the dorsal horn, “gating out” painful stimuli. 8

4. Vascular-intestinal Theory

Acupuncture manipulates the electrical system of the body by creating or enhancing closed-circuit transport in tissues. This facilitates healing by allowing the transfer of material and electrical energy between normal and injured tissues. 9

5. Blood Chemistry Theory

Acupuncture affects the blood concentrations of triglycerides, cholesterol, and phospholipids, suggesting that acupuncture can both raise and diminish peripheral blood components, thereby regulating the body toward homeostasis. 10

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. 11

(Reference Notes)

1, 2, 12, 13, 14 National Institute of Health (NIH)- National Institute of Health Consensus Conference on Acupuncture, Program & Abstracts (Bethesda, MD, November 3-5, 1997). Office of Alternative Medicine and Office of Medical Applications of Research. Bethesda.

3 Neuro-acupuncture, Scientific evidence of acupuncture revealed, 2001 Cho, ZH., et al., page 128.

4 Acupuncture- A scientific appraisal, Ernst, E., White, A., 1999, page 74.

5 Acupuncture Energetics- A clinical approach for Physicians, Helms, Dr. J., 1997, page 41-42.

6 Anatomy of Neuro-Anatomical Acupuncture, Volume 1, Wong, Dr. J., page 34.

7 Han, J.S. “Acupuncture Activates Endogenous Systems of Analgesia.” National Institute of Health Consensus Conference on Acupuncture, Program & Abstracts (Bethesda, MD, November 3-5, 1997). Office of Alternative Medicine and Office of Medical Applications of Research. Bethesda.

8 Neuro-acupuncture, Scientific evidence of acupuncture revealed, Cho. ZH., et al., page 116.

9 Acupuncture Energetics- A clinical approach for Physicians, Helms, Dr. J., 1997, page 66.

10 Acupuncture Energetics- A clinical approach for Physicians, Helms, Dr. J., 1997, page 41.

11 Astin, JA., et. Al., A review of the incorporation of complementary and alternative medicine by mainstream physicians. Arch Intern Med ., 1998;(158):2303-10.