Fun Facts on the History and Science Behind Acupuncture

The History of Acupuncture

Acupuncture originated in China over 2,500 years ago. The first recorded use of acupuncture dates back to 100 BC in The Yellow Emperor's Classic of Internal Medicine, one of the oldest medical texts in the world. Acupuncture was primarily used to treat pain and other ailments by inserting thin needles into specific points on the body. Over time, acupuncture evolved into a complete medical system incorporating herbal medicine, massage, exercise, and dietary therapy. Acupuncture began spreading beyond China in the 6th century AD and reached Europe by the 17th century after Dutch doctor Willem ten Rhijne wrote about seeing it practiced in Japan.

Acupuncture Arrives in the United States

In the 19th century, there was fascination with acupuncture in the United States after reports from missionaries and others who had observed it in China. The first acupuncture clinic was opened in Washington DC in 1826 by French diplomat Soubert. In the 1970s, interest in acupuncture surged as President Nixon reopened relations with China. Journalists who accompanied Nixon on his 1972 trip to China wrote about acupuncture and its use in Chinese hospitals. Today, acupuncture is practiced all over the world and continues gaining popularity in Western countries as an alternative and complementary therapy.

How Acupuncture Works

Acupuncture is based on the belief that energy, or "qi", flows through the body along pathways called meridians. Illness and pain occur when there is a disruption or imbalance in the flow of qi. Inserting fine needles into specific points along the meridians restores the proper flow of qi and brings the body back into balance. Modern research shows acupuncture stimulates the release of pain relieving endorphins, increases blood circulation, and activates the body's natural healing abilities.

Fun Facts About Acupuncture

The Needles Used are Hair-thin

Acupuncture needles are much thinner than hypodermic needles used for injections. They are about the width of a human hair. The tip of acupuncture needles comes to a fine point to easily penetrate the skin, but they do not cut like hypodermic needles. Most people feel little to no pain when the needles are inserted.

There are No Nerve Endings Where Needles are Inserted

Acupuncture needles are inserted into specific points just below the skin's surface. These points correspond to areas where there are few nerve endings, so there is less chance of hitting a nerve. Hitting a nerve would be extremely painful, so acupuncturists are highly trained to know the precise location of acupuncture points.

Needles May be Retained After Insertion

Depending on the treatment protocol, acupuncture needles may be left in place for up to 30 minutes after insertion. The needles are very thin and flexible, allowing the patient to move during treatment without discomfort if the needles are retained. Retaining the needles allows the effects to work longer.

The Needles do Not Go Very Deep

Acupuncture needles penetrate just a few millimeters to a few centimeters below the skin's surface. They do not go into deep tissues, organs, or the bloodstream like hypodermic needles. The World Health Organization (WHO) states that penetration of up to 12 cm is safe. Penetration depth varies based on the location of the acupuncture point and required treatment effects.

Acupuncture Points are Mapped Out

Over centuries of practice, acupuncture points have been precisely mapped out on channel systems covering the entire body. Major channels run down the arms, legs, front and back of the torso, and the head. In total, there are 361 classical acupuncture points that practitioners know and use for treatment.

Points Have Colorful Names

In English translations from Chinese, acupuncture points have descriptive and colorful names that reflect their intended uses. For example, there are points called Eyes Bright, Mouth Corner, Shoulder Well, Middle Rushing, and Clasped Hands. The names help practitioners remember the locations and functions of specific points.

The Needles are Disposable

Acupuncturists only use sterile, single-use disposable needles to ensure safety. The needles come packaged and sealed in plastic and are opened just before use. They are used one time and then disposed of in a medical biohazard container. Reusing needles could lead to infections and spread disease.

Acupuncture Has Very Few Side Effects

When performed by a trained professional, acupuncture is extremely safe with few side effects. Bleeding or bruising at the needle site may occur but is usually minimal. Some people may feel tired, relaxed or euphoric after a treatment. Dizziness and fainting can occur but are rare. Severe side effects are extremely uncommon.

Traditional Chinese Medicine Uses Moxibustion

Moxibustion is a technique that involves burning dried mugwort on acupressure points to amplify the effects. The burning herb warms the channels and stimulates circulation through the points. It is often used together with acupuncture to strengthen treatment. The moxa itself does not touch the skin, only the heat reaches the body.

Acupuncture May be Used With Electrical Stimulation

Some acupuncturists may use mild electrical pulses through the inserted needles to trigger the release of endorphins and enhance effects. This is called electroacupuncture. The stimulation feels like a mild vibration - it should not be painful and patients remain comfortable.

Benefits of Acupuncture

Acupuncture has been used to effectively treat a wide range of conditions including:

• Chronic pain relief
• Reduced inflammation and improved circulation
• Relief from headaches and migraines
• Relaxation and reduced stress & anxiety
• Increased energy levels
• Treatment of respiratory conditions
• Relief of digestive disorders
• Regulation of blood pressure

Clinical studies also show acupuncture can help with conditions like depression, insomnia, infertility, osteoarthritis, weight loss and more. Acupuncture triggers the body's natural healing response and brings all systems back into balance when performed regularly.

FAQs

How does acupuncture work?

Acupuncture works by inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to restore the proper flow of energy or "qi." This balances the body's systems and activates natural healing abilities. The needles stimulate nerve endings that transmit signals to the brain to trigger the release of pain relieving endorphins and other beneficial effects.

Is acupuncture painful?

Most people feel little to no pain during acupuncture treatments. The needles are very thin, about the width of a human hair, and there are few nerve endings at the insertion sites. You may feel a mild aching, warmth, tingling or dull pressure at points during treatment.

What conditions can acupuncture treat?

Acupuncture has been shown to effectively treat a wide range of conditions including chronic pain, headaches, anxiety, depression, insomnia, infertility, digestive disorders, arthritis, fatigue, women's health issues and more. It brings the body back into overall balance.

How long do the effects last?

Acupuncture treatments provide both immediate short-term relief and cumulative long-term benefits. Many patients notice an immediate improvement after their first session. Over time, regular acupuncture activates self-healing and promotes overall wellness that can last for months.

Does insurance cover acupuncture?

Many insurance plans now provide some coverage for acupuncture treatments. Contact your insurance provider to find out about your specific coverage details for acupuncture and alternative therapies.