Acupuncture
Acupuncture is designed to inspire shifts in the body and mind by increasing circulation in places of tightness, weakness, and pain. By addressing issues of tissue congestion and stagnation, movement and communication of bodily fluids, blood, lymph and the nervous system is encouraged. This shift in the tissue in turn allows the body to relax, open and heal. Located near major nerve and arterial networks and branches, acupuncture points are used to indicate to the body, where the focus of attention for change needs to be directed. There is a popular statement in Chinese medicine,

"When there is free flow there is no pain; when there is pain, there is no free flow."

In 1997, the National Institute of Health created a consensus statement for the efficacy of acupuncture based on research, case studies, testimonials and statements made by senior health professionals throughout the country. Based on that professional consortium, the National Institute of Health has proposed three general pathways of physiological influence.

1. "Conduction of Electromagnetic Signals: Western scientists have found evidence that acupuncture points are strategic conductors of electromagnetic signals. Stimulating points along these pathways through acupuncture enables electromagnetic signals to be relayed at a greater rate than under normal conditions. These signals may start the flow of pain-killing biochemicals, such as endorphins, and of immune system cells to specific sites in the body that are injured or vulnerable to disease."
2. "Activation of Opioid Systems: Research has found that several types of opioids may be released into the central nervous system during acupuncture treatment, thereby reducing pain."
3. "Changes in Brain Chemistry, Sensation, and Involuntary Body Functions: Studies have shown that acupuncture may alter brain chemistry by changing the release of neurotransmitters and neurohormones. Acupuncture also has been documented to affect the parts of the central nervous system related to sensation and involuntary body functions, such as immune reactions and processes whereby a person's blood pressure, blood flow, and body temperature are regulated." (NIH Consensus Statement, 1997)

In the wake of that consensus conference, the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine was created and presently millions of dollars are being invested in research designed to help our understanding of how acupuncture works and where it can be most effectively used to treat illness.