Does Acupuncture Really Work? What the Research Says

You’ve probably heard people talk about acupuncture and how it’s helped with everything from pain relief to stress reduction. But does acupuncture really work? Is it just an ancient practice passed down through generations, or is there real science that supports its effectiveness?

In this blog, we’ll dive into the research on acupuncture, how acupuncture works, and whether it’s worth trying. So, if you’ve been wondering, “Does acupuncture really work?” this article is for you.

What Is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is part of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), which has been practiced for more than 5,000 years. It involves inserting very thin, sterile needles into specific points on your body. These points are believed to balance the flow of your body’s energy, known as “Qi” or “chee.”

In TCM, Qi flows through pathways called meridians. When this energy is blocked or unbalanced, it may result in illness, pain, or stress. By stimulating certain points along these meridians, acupuncture helps restore balance.

But how does acupuncture fit into today’s modern medical world?

Modern science suggests that acupuncture stimulates the nervous system, improves blood circulation, and activates the body’s natural healing mechanisms. It’s not only about energy flow; it’s about how your body responds physically and chemically to these precise stimulations.

How Acupuncture Works: The Science Behind It

When an acupuncturist places needles in the body, several biological processes are triggered. 

Here’s a breakdown of what researchers have found:

• Pain Relief: Acupuncture stimulates the release of endorphins, your body’s natural painkillers. This explains why acupuncture is widely used for headaches, back pain, and arthritis.

  
  

• Improved Circulation: Needles encourage better blood flow, which reduces inflammation and speeds up recovery from injuries.

  
  

• Hormone Balance: Acupuncture can influence hormones connected to stress, fertility, and sleep. For example, studies show that acupuncture can regulate cortisol, the stress hormone.

  
  

• Nervous System Activation: By stimulating nerve endings, acupuncture sends signals to the brain that can adjust how pain is perceived and processed.

Curious to dig deeper into the science? You can explore more with Johns Hopkins Medicine.

Does Acupuncture Really Work? What the Research Shows

The short answer: yes, it works, but results can vary depending on the condition and the individual. Let’s look at some areas where acupuncture has shown clear benefits.

Pain Relief

This is the most researched and widely accepted benefit of acupuncture. According to studies published in JAMA Internal Medicine, acupuncture has been shown to relieve chronic back pain, neck pain, migraines, and osteoarthritis. Harvard Health also reports that acupuncture may influence how the brain processes pain signals.

So, does acupuncture work for pain? Yes, it’s one of the most effective natural approaches for pain management.

Stress and Anxiety

Stress affects both the mind and body, and acupuncture offers a holistic approach. By promoting relaxation and releasing neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, acupuncture helps reduce tension, calm the mind, and improve mood.

If you’ve been asking yourself, ‘Does acupuncture work for stress?’ The answer is absolutely. Many patients report feeling lighter and more balanced after just one session.

Chronic Health Conditions

Beyond pain and stress, acupuncture has been found useful for conditions like:

• Digestive problems (IBS, bloating, nausea)

• Insomnia and sleep disorders

• Allergies and asthma

• Menstrual irregularities and infertility

In these cases, acupuncture works by restoring internal balance and supporting the body’s natural healing.

Is Acupuncture Safe? Possible Side Effects

Acupuncture is considered safe when performed by a licensed professional. The needles are as thin as a strand of hair, so most people feel only a mild sensation or nothing at all.

Possible side effects include:

• Slight soreness or bruising at the needle site

• Temporary fatigue after a session

• Lightheadedness in rare cases

To minimize risks, always choose a certified and licensed acupuncturist who uses sterile, single-use needles.

Other Benefits of Acupuncture

Aside from treating pain and stress, acupuncture provides a wide range of additional health benefits:

• Boosts Immunity: Helps strengthen your body’s defenses against illness.

• Improves Sleep: Encourages deeper, more restorative sleep.

• Supports Digestion: Helps regulate bowel movements and reduce bloating.

• Increases Energy: Many patients report feeling more energized and alert.

• Enhances Mental Clarity: Acupuncture sessions often leave people feeling focused and refreshed.

The benefits of acupuncture demonstrate why it’s becoming increasingly popular in modern wellness care.

Types of Acupuncture at NDCARE

At NDCARE, Celisha Gerber, ND, LAc, offers several variations of acupuncture tailored to different health needs:

• Auricular Acupuncture: Targets points on the ear, often used for stress, pain, and addiction support.

• Cupping Therapy: Creates suction on the skin to improve circulation and relieve muscle tension.

• Magnet Therapy: Uses small magnets on acupuncture points to promote healing.

• Trigger Point Therapy: Focuses on muscle knots and tension.

• Herbal Medicine: Traditional herbs used alongside acupuncture to enhance overall healing.

To see acupuncture in action, watch this video. To explore all the treatments we provide, visit our Acupuncture Services Page.

What to Expect in Your First Acupuncture Session

If you’re new to acupuncture, here’s what typically happens:

1. Consultation: NDCARE’s Celisha Gerber, ND, LAc, will ask about your health history, symptoms, and lifestyle.

   
   

2. Treatment Plan: A customized plan is created based on your needs.

   
   

3. Needle Placement: The practitioner gently inserts fine needles into selected points.

   
   

4. Relaxation: You’ll rest quietly for 15-30 minutes with the needles in place. Many patients describe this time as deeply calming.

   
   

5. Aftercare: You may feel relaxed, energized, or even slightly tired. Drinking water and resting afterward can enhance results.

Is Acupuncture Right for You?

If you’re dealing with pain, stress, or other health concerns, acupuncture may be worth considering. It’s a natural, non-invasive treatment that supports your body’s healing abilities.

Acupuncture is especially helpful if you:

• Prefer holistic or drug-free treatments,

• Struggle with chronic pain or stress,

• Want to complement existing medical treatments.

To see if acupuncture is a good fit for your needs, visit our New Patients Page for guidance on getting started.

So, does Acupuncture Really Work?

Yes, it does. Both research and patient experiences confirm its effectiveness for pain relief, stress reduction, and overall wellness. While it may not be a cure-all, it is a valuable tool in both traditional and modern medicine.

If you’re curious, why not try it for yourself? Whether you’re struggling with chronic pain or simply want to improve your well-being, acupuncture can be a safe and effective choice.

Ready to begin your journey? Call or text us at (865) 292-8735 to schedule your first appointment and experience the healing benefits of acupuncture today.