Acupuncture is a healing method whose origin dates back to Ancient China. It’s based on the premise that illnesses are caused by a disruption of energy flow (Qi) in the body. Thin, solid, metallic needles are used to penetrate the skin close to acupuncture points, through which the channels (meridian) of energy pass through. By doing this, the acupuncturist is able to restore the flow of the life energy through the meridian.

Modern science show that there exists an abundant supply of nerves close to acupuncture points. Tapping these causes the nervous system to trigger the release of chemicals in the spinal cord, brain, and muscles that alleviate pain. This promotes the release of hormones that activates the body’s own internal regulating system in order to reestablish homeostasis—the body’s tendency to maintain balance with its external environment.

The body has its natural healing mechanism. Acupuncture induces micro-traumas that serve to alert the body’s “healing police”, from the nervous, immune and endocrine systems, to tissue injuries sustained from muscles sprains and strains, torn ligaments, arthritis, etc., including those from old traumas. In addition, it also releases endorphins, norepinephrine and encephalin, the body’s own built-in painkillers that can also be 10-200 times more powerful than morphine.

Acupuncture is found to be a very potent stress-reliever. It triggers the release of oxytocin, the same hormone associated with pair-bonding activities such as kissing, coitus, and breast-feeding, leading to positive emotional states such as relaxation, trust and psychological stability. Some London physiotherapy facilities, like CK Physiotherapy, use it in their treatment plans to alleviate headaches, back aches, respiratory and digestive disorders and other types of discomfort associated with stress.

The method also helps facilitate healthy blood flow throughout the body. The blood serves as the vessel that transports everything the body needs for recovery such as oxygen, immune substance, food nutrients, hormones, anti-inflammatories and analgesics. In fact, some studies show that by diminishing blood flow to the breast by as little as 3%, cancer can develop. Acupuncture promotes blood flow via increased dilation of blood vessels in many regions of the body.

Acupuncture is usually used by some London physio practitioners as a part of their comprehensive treatment plans aiming to cure disorders as a whole and not merely based on individual symptoms. If you or someone you know is suffering from chronic pain, injuries and other sorts of discomfort, see a qualified physiotherapist knowledgeable of acupuncture to experience the remarkable healing power of the needles.

(Source: 5 Ways Acupuncture Can Fix Your Health Problems, Men’s Health)