07/11/2025
The question I am asked most in my practice is, "How does acupuncture work?"
Well...
Acupuncture works by stimulating specific points on the body — known as acupoints — to restore balance and flow of Qi (vital energy) through the meridian system. But how it “works” depends on whether you're speaking from a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) perspective or a biomedical (Western science) perspective.
TCM Perspective: Energy & Balance
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, the body has a network of meridians/energetic channels where Qi and Blood circulate.
Blockage, deficiency, or imbalance of Qi leads to pain or illness.
Acupuncture needles stimulate specific points to:
Move stagnant Qi and Blood
Tonify deficiency
Disperse excess
Harmonize internal organs
Biomedical Perspective: Nervous System & Biochemistry
From a scientific/physiological point of view, acupuncture works through several mechanisms:
1. Neurological Effects
Acupuncture stimulates sensory nerves modulating pain perception, the autonomic nervous system and motor reflexes.
2. Endorphin Release
Acupuncture triggers the release of endorphins, enkephalins, and other natural opioids, which reduces pain and enhances mood
3. Improved Blood Flow
Acupuncture increases local circulation around the needle site, enhancing oxygen and nutrient delivery while removing inflammatory waste
4. Immune and Anti-inflammatory Regulation
Acupuncture modulates the immune response and regulates cytokines, T-cells, and mast cells
5. Fascial and Connective Tissue Effects
Needling affects interstitial connective tissue, which may help reset tension patterns and realign body mechanics
In short, acupuncture is both an art and a science — harmonizing Qi in TCM terms, and influencing nerves, hormones, and inflammation in biomedical terms.
If you want to experience the profound effects of acupuncture, call me at 941-205-8649. You can also check out my website at www.ssacupuncture.rocks.
May we all find the healing we need.