Acupuncture is the shallow insertion of fine sterile needles at specific points on the body. Acupuncture works by signaling the central nervous system to release the body’s natural opiates like dopamine and serotonin into the bloodstream, spinal cord, and brain. These biochemical changes stimulate the body’s natural healing abilities and promote physical and emotional well-being.
Acupuncture also works locally by trigger point release of tight muscles which can alleviate nerve pain like sciatica as well as neck and back pain.
In addition, acupuncture has an anti-inflammatory effect which is why it can be helpful with arthritis, plantar fasciitis, carpal tunnel syndrome, and other inflammatory conditions.