06/10/2025
How does acupuncture actually work?
I get asked this all the time by new patients, so I thought I had better make a post about it!
Acupuncture is a traditional practice that has been used for thousands of years to restore balance and promote natural healing. It involves the gentle insertion of very fine, sterile needles into specific points on the body known as acupuncture points. Each point has a function, or a variety of different functions, and points are chosen in accordance with your signs and symptoms of illness, making acupuncture a highly personalised treatment.
Acupuncture points lie along pathways called meridians, which are believed to carry the body’s vital energy, or Qi (pronounced “chee”).
In Chinese medicine, illness occurs because the body’s energy (Qi) becomes blocked or imbalanced, this disruption in the body’s energy flow can lead to pain, illness, or emotional distress. Acupuncture works by stimulating these points to restore the smooth flow of Qi, helping the body return to it’s optimum state.
From a modern scientific perspective, acupuncture is known to influence the nervous system, increase blood circulation, reduce cortisol levels, and trigger the release of natural pain-relieving chemicals such as endorphins. This combination helps reduce inflammation, ease tension, and support the body’s natural healing processes.
Acupuncture can be used to address a wide range of conditions, including chronic pain, stress, digestive issues, sleep disturbances, and hormonal imbalances. Many people also use it as a preventative therapy to maintain overall health and well-being.
Each session is tailored to your individual needs.
