Acupuncture

In acupuncture, hair-thin needles are inserted into specific points of the body. Practitioners of acupuncture believe the needles stimulate these points and thus unblock the pathways of the body's energy flow (qi). Stimulation at the appropriate points restores balance in the body. Blockage of energy flow is considered to be the cause of pain and disease.

Acupuncture originated in China more than 2,000 years ago. In the United States, a few doctors, including some neurologists, anesthesiologists, and specialists in physical medicine, are trained in acupuncture.

After insertion, the needles may be twirled rapidly and intermittently for a few minutes, or a low electrical current may be applied through the needles. Acupuncture is usually painless. Pain is more likely to be felt if the person moves or if the needle is improperly placed. Some people feel energized after treatment. Others feel relaxed.

Medical claims: Acupuncture has been used to relieve pain and to prevent nausea and vomiting. It has also been used to treat carpal tunnel syndrome, arthritis, asthma, and bronchitis and to help with rehabilitation after a stroke. It is claimed to help people stop smoking, drinking alcohol, and using illicit drugs.

Evidence indicates that acupuncture releases various chemical messengers in the brain (neurotransmitters) that act as natural pain relievers. There is also evidence that acupuncture can relieve low back pain and pain after surgery or dental procedures. Acupuncture may relieve myofascial pain (pain that occurs in muscles, tendons, and ligaments), as occurs in fibromyalgia. However, whether acupuncture relieves chronic pain (as occurs in arthritis) is unclear. Acupuncture may be effective in helping treat drug or alcohol addiction, carpal tunnel syndrome, arthritis, asthma, and headaches and in helping with rehabilitation after a stroke. There is no evidence that acupuncture helps people stop smoking.

Possible problems: If done correctly, acupuncture causes few problems. Infections are rare, because most practitioners use sterile needles. If the needles are not inserted correctly, an organ may be punctured. Some people faint. Sometimes symptoms worsen after treatment. People should choose practitioners who are well-trained and licensed.