ACUPUNCTURE
HOW OLD IS ACUPUNCTURE?
Acupuncture has a long history, with written documentation dating back at least 2,000 years, and earlier practices likely extending further. Archaeological findings from ancient China, including medical texts and tools from the late Shang Dynasty (around 1000 B.C.), suggest early forms of needling and medical theory were already in use.
In 1991, the preserved remains of Ötzi the Iceman, who lived around 3300 B.C., were discovered in the Ötztal Alps. His body shows a series of tattoos located along the spine, knee, and ankle. Some researchers have noted that these markings are near areas commonly used in acupuncture or similar therapeutic systems, suggesting a possible early form of body-based treatment, although this connection remains debated.
One of the most important early medical texts, the Huangdi Neijing, also known as the Yellow Emperor’s Inner Canon, was compiled around the 2nd century B.C. and outlines foundational theories of diagnosis and treatment that continue to influence acupuncture today.
Over time, acupuncture continued to develop throughout China and later spread to other parts of Asia, Europe, and eventually the United States, where it is now commonly integrated into modern healthcare settings.
HOW DOES IT WORK?
There are several research-supported theories that help explain how acupuncture affects the body. Rather than a single mechanism, it likely works through a combination of physiological responses:
(Click here for articles that support the theories below.)
Nervous system and pain modulation
Acupuncture stimulates sensory nerves, which can influence how the brain and spinal cord process pain. This includes activation of endogenous opioid pathways, meaning the body releases its own pain-relieving chemicals such as endorphins.
Neurotransmitter regulation
Research suggests acupuncture can affect levels of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and norepinephrine, which play a role in pain perception, mood, and stress regulation.
Circulation and local tissue effects
Acupuncture has been shown to increase local blood flow and influence inflammatory processes. Improved circulation can support tissue repair and reduce muscle tension.
Central nervous system effects
Brain imaging studies have demonstrated that acupuncture can modulate activity in areas of the brain involved in pain, stress, and sensory processing.
Gate control theory of pain
Stimulation from acupuncture needles can interfere with pain signaling at the spinal cord level, reducing the intensity of pain signals reaching the brain.
Immune and regulatory effects
Some studies suggest acupuncture may influence immune markers and help regulate the body’s stress response, though this area is still being researched.
Traditional Perspective
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, acupuncture is understood through a different framework. The body is described as having interconnected pathways, often referred to as channels, which relate to different physiological systems. Points along these pathways are used to influence function and restore balance.
Rather than focusing on individual symptoms alone, treatment is based on patterns of imbalance. A practitioner selects specific points and techniques based on a patient’s overall presentation and how their condition has developed over time. Treatment is adjusted as the body responds and changes.
WHAT'S QI?
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, Qi is a foundational concept used to describe the body’s overall functional activity. It is often translated as “energy” or “vital force,” but those terms don’t fully capture its meaning. A more accurate way to think about Qi is as a way of describing how the body moves, regulates, and maintains itself.
Qi is not a single measurable substance. Instead, it reflects processes such as circulation, nervous system activity, metabolism, and the body’s ability to adapt and respond to stress or injury.
During an acupuncture treatment, both the practitioner and patient may notice a distinct sensation when a point is stimulated. Patients often describe this as a dull, heavy, or spreading feeling. This response is sometimes referred to as “Qi arriving” and is considered a sign that the point is being effectively engaged.
While modern research continues to explore how these effects relate to known physiological systems, Qi remains a useful clinical framework for understanding patterns of dysfunction and guiding treatment.
DOES IT HURT?
Acupuncture is generally not considered painful. The needles are very thin, and while you may feel a brief sensation as the needle passes through the skin, it typically fades quickly.
Once the needle is in place, you may notice a dull, heavy, or mild achy sensation. This can vary depending on the area being treated and your individual sensitivity. Some points are naturally more sensitive than others, and factors like stress, fatigue, or your menstrual cycle can also affect how treatment feels.
If you are more sensitive, your practitioner can adjust the technique, use thinner needles, or guide you through breathing to make the process more comfortable.
Most patients tolerate acupuncture well and find that any mild discomfort is short-lived and outweighed by the benefits of treatment.
HOW BIG ARE THE NEEDLES?
As a reference, around 20 acupuncture needles can fit in one hypodermic needle. The size of the acupuncture needle varies from 28-40 gauge or .16-.35mm.
ARE NEEDLES REUSED?
No, acupuncture needles are single use and are disposed of after being used.
WHAT DOES ACUPUNCTURE TREAT?
Acupuncture is used to treat a wide range of symptoms and conditions, particularly those involving pain, inflammation, and nervous system regulation.
According to the World Health Organization, acupuncture has been studied in controlled trials and shown to be effective for a variety of conditions, including:
Pain and musculoskeletal conditions
- Low back pain
- Neck pain
- Knee pain
- Sciatica
- Shoulder pain
- Tennis elbow
- Sprains and acute injuries
- Headaches and migraines
Digestive and internal conditions
- Nausea and vomiting
- Morning sickness
- Epigastric pain and digestive discomfort
Neurological and stress-related conditions
- Depression
- Post-stroke recovery
- Facial pain and nerve-related conditions
Women’s health
- Dysmenorrhea (painful periods)
- Support during labor and pregnancy (including nausea and fetal positioning)
Supportive care
- Postoperative pain
- Side effects of chemotherapy and radiation, such as nausea and low white blood cell count
HOW MANY TREATMENTS DO YOU NEED?
The number of treatments depends on what you are coming in for, as well as how long the issue has been present and how your body responds to care.
Acupuncture is a process, and while some people notice changes after the first few sessions, most conditions require a series of treatments to see lasting results.
Acute issues may resolve more quickly, while chronic or long-standing conditions typically take more time.
In many cases, a short course of treatment, often around 6 to 10 sessions, is recommended before fully evaluating progress. Your treatment plan will be adjusted along the way based on how you respond.