How Acupuncture Works

The mechanisms of acupuncture, though not solidly proven, have exhibited several commonly accepted effects to the body. Most notable is that acupuncture stimulates the central nervous system—the brain and spinal cord. Most people report a tingling sensation, feeling relaxed or even energized. Again, this is largely based on the individual receiving the acupuncture treatment and how he or she perceives it.
During an acupuncture treatment session, anywhere from 1 to 20 FDA-approved, metallic needles are inserted into the body, ranging from just breaking the surface to up to 1 or several inches long. The longer acupuncture needles (such as 5 to 9 inches) are inserted into areas of deeper muscle/fat layers or along, under the skin or even scalp, depending on what is being treated and the required depth or penetration. The acupuncture needles are often left in for approximately 15 to 30 minutes. Some practitioners insert needles, turn them either in one direction or the other or both, depending on what they are attempting to achieve, and these needles are inserted for perhaps 10 seconds only, removed and the same needle is used for treatment of other points on that same patient. In certain instances, needles are warmed or electrically charged after insertion. The electrical acupuncture can be used with needles or through the use of a non-penetrating probe.