10/23/2025
Recent research increasingly explores acupuncture through a physical, neurophysiological lens, rather than the traditional energetic concept of qi. These scientific studies investigate how acupuncture stimulates the body's nervous system, connective tissues, and biochemical pathways to produce therapeutic effects.
Neurophysiological mechanisms
Central and peripheral nervous system modulation: Acupuncture is believed to activate peripheral nerves at the needle insertion site, sending signals through the spinal cord to the brain. Functional MRI (fMRI) studies have shown that acupuncture can modulate brain activity in pain-related regions, affecting how the brain processes pain and other sensory information.
Neurotransmitter and endorphin release: Evidence suggests that acupuncture stimulates the release of the body's natural painkillers, including endorphins and enkephalins. It also influences other neurotransmitters like serotonin and norepinephrine, which can affect mood, pain perception, and the body's stress response.
Autonomic nervous system regulation: Studies show that acupuncture can help balance the autonomic nervous system by regulating the "fight or flight" (sympathetic) and "rest and digest" (parasympathetic) responses. This can affect blood pressure, heart rate, and digestion.
Promoting nerve regeneration: Research in animal models and human studies on carpal tunnel syndrome indicates that acupuncture may promote nerve regeneration and repair. This is thought to occur through its influence on neurotrophic factors and by reversing negative remodeling in the nervous system.
Connective tissue and local effects
Mechanical signaling through connective tissue: Some research suggests that the mechanical action of twisting the needle wraps and tugs at connective tissue (fascia) beneath the skin. This mechanical signal may activate nerve endings and other cells at or away from the insertion site.
Myofascial trigger point therapy: A form of acupuncture known as dry needling specifically targets and deactivates myofascial trigger points—painful, taut bands within muscles. Studies, including meta-analyses, have shown this approach is effective for reducing myofascial pain and improving range of motion.
Localized anti-inflammatory effects: Acupuncture can trigger local changes at the needle site, such as increased blood flow and the release of signaling molecules like adenosine. These effects can have an anti-inflammatory and analgesic (pain-relieving) effect.
Key findings from clinical studies
Chronic pain: Meta-analyses of high-quality randomized controlled trials (RCTs) confirm that acupuncture is more effective than no-acupuncture control for conditions like back and neck pain, osteoarthritis, and chronic
headaches.
Myofascial pain: A 2024 meta-analysis found that acupuncture significantly reduced pain scores in patients with myofascial pain syndrome when compared to control groups.
Adjunctive therapy: Increasingly, physical medicine sees acupuncture as a valuable complementary treatment for managing conditions like fibromyalgia, migraines, and cancer-related side effects. It is often integrated into care plans to reduce reliance on medication and address persistent symptoms.
River Station Integrative Acupuncture and Wellness is Christian centered. Jesus is Lord.
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