Many of my readers maybe wondering why I haven’t written about the manners by which Acupuncture works. That is, how Acupuncture works as described in Western scientific words. To those of you who are wondering, I assure you that I appreciate your concern and will, now, try to satisfy your thirst for knowledge.

I will use the phrase, Acupuncture Mechanisms, to characterize some widely Western-scientifically researched theories on Acupuncture. One such theory is the Neurotransmitter Theory. This theory purports that Acupuncture affects higher brain areas and stimulates the release of neurotransmitters that influence the immune system and the antinociceptive system.

Again, I am giving you the scientific language associated with these theories. If you want a deeper understanding, do your own research. Another theory is the Autonomic Nervous System Theory. This theory states that Acupuncture stimulates the release of Norepinephrine, Acetylcholine, and several types of Opioids, which reduces pain. I use this theory a lot when I explain to my patient what exactly Acupuncture is doing, in Western medical terms, to help with their pain.

The Vascular-Interstitial theory is one that describe Acupuncture effects on the electrical system of the body, facilitating the transfer of material and electrical energy between normal and injured tissues.

Another well researched Western-based Acupuncture theory is the Blood Chemistry theory. This theory purports that Acupuncture effects the blood concentrations of Triglycerides, Cholesterol, and Phosolipids. This one is especially good when explaining internal problems, like digestive issues, to your patients.

The last theory I have for you is the The Gate Control Theory. This theory advocates that Acupuncture activates non-nociceptive signals in the Dorsal Horn, “gating out” painful stimuli. This theory is another one that I use often to explain the mechanism of treating the pain that my patient has.

In future blogs, I will delve more deeply into these theories. However, I think this blog should hold you down for now.