How Does Acupuncture Work to Relieve Pain(20+ studies)

Acupuncture has been practiced for thousands of years, originating from traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). Despite its ancient roots, it has steadily gained recognition in modern healthcare as a complementary treatment for various ailments, particularly pain relief. But how exactly does acupuncture work? Is it all about “Qi” (pronounced “chee”) and mystical energy flows, or does science have an explanation?

This article dives into the mechanisms, clinical effects, and growing body of evidence that supports acupuncture’s role in pain management.

Table of Contents

What Is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body, known as acupuncture points or “acupoints.” In TCM, this is believed to regulate the flow of “Qi” and blood, promoting balance and health. However, from a modern medical perspective, acupuncture operates through measurable biological and physiological processes¹.

Acupuncture is widely used today for managing chronic pain, migraines, post-surgical discomfort, and even stress-related conditions². According to a study published in the Archives of Internal Medicine, acupuncture has been shown to outperform both placebo and standard care in treating chronic pain conditions³. But before we dive into the evidence, let’s explore how acupuncture is believed to work biologically.

The Science Behind Acupuncture: How Does It Work?

Modern research has uncovered several mechanisms by which acupuncture may relieve pain. While the traditional explanation involves balancing “Qi” and unblocking energy pathways, science offers some fascinating insights.

1. Neurological Effects: Stimulating Pain-Relieving Chemicals

When acupuncture needles are inserted into the skin, they stimulate specific nerve endings. This triggers the release of natural painkillers, such as endorphins and enkephalins, which work to dull pain sensations⁴.

According to a study in the Journal of Pain, acupuncture also affects the brain’s reward and pain perception centers. By modulating the activity of areas like the hypothalamus and amygdala, acupuncture can influence how we perceive and emotionally react to pain⁵.

Additionally, acupuncture has been found to alter the activity of the spinal cord, reducing the transmission of pain signals to the brain⁶.

2. Anti-Inflammatory Effects

Inflammation is a common culprit behind pain, whether it’s from arthritis, injury, or chronic conditions⁷. Acupuncture has been shown to regulate inflammatory responses by decreasing levels of pro-inflammatory markers like cytokines⁸.

A 2016 study published in Scientific Reports found that acupuncture stimulates the vagus nerve, which helps reduce systemic inflammation⁹. This anti-inflammatory effect is particularly beneficial for conditions such as osteoarthritis and migraines.

3. Improving Blood Flow and Tissue Healing

Acupuncture has been observed to increase blood flow to targeted areas, enhancing oxygen and nutrient delivery while promoting tissue repair¹⁰. For example, in cases of injury-induced pain, the improved circulation can help accelerate the healing process and reduce swelling¹¹.

4. Balancing the Nervous System

Chronic pain often involves an overactive sympathetic nervous system (our fight-or-flight response)¹². Acupuncture works to calm this overactivity, shifting the body to a more relaxed, parasympathetic state. This not only helps with pain but can also improve sleep, reduce stress, and enhance overall well-being¹³.

As you can see, research has proven that acupuncture can help relieve pain in many ways, from controlling inflammation to balancing the nervous system.

Clinical Evidence: Does Acupuncture Really Work?

The effectiveness of acupuncture in relieving pain has been the subject of numerous studies and meta-analyses. While skeptics argue that it may simply be a placebo effect, growing evidence suggests otherwise.

1. Chronic Pain Relief

A landmark study funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) analyzed data from over 18,000 patients. The results, published in the Archives of Internal Medicine, showed that acupuncture significantly reduced pain levels for conditions like¹⁴:

Arthritis and joint pain
Chronic back and neck pain
Headaches and migraines

“We believe there is definitive evidence that acupuncture provides real benefits for chronic pain patients.”
——Dr. Andrew J. Vickers, the lead researcher

2. Sports Injuries and Muscle Pain

Acupuncture is increasingly popular among athletes for managing sports injuries and post-exercise soreness. Research has shown that it can reduce muscle tightness, improve range of motion, and speed up recovery¹⁵.

One study published in Sports Medicine found that acupuncture helped athletes return to training faster by reducing inflammation and promoting tissue repair¹⁶.

3. Special Populations: Children and Chronic Illnesses

Though acupuncture is often associated with adults, studies have also begun exploring its use in children. A study in Pediatrics found that acupuncture reduced pain and anxiety in children undergoing cancer treatments¹⁷.

For individuals with chronic illnesses, such as fibromyalgia or sickle cell anemia, acupuncture has shown promise as a complementary therapy¹⁸.

Clinical evidence suggests that acupuncture can help relieve pain problems to some extent, especially when modern therapies are ineffective. Trying this old method may have unexpected results.

Common Misconceptions About Acupuncture

As acupuncture becomes more mainstream, certain myths persist. Let’s clear up a few:

Myth	Reality
Acupuncture is painful.	The needles are incredibly thin—about the width of a human hair—and most people report little to no discomfort.
It’s based purely on superstition.	While rooted in ancient traditions, modern research has validated many of acupuncture’s biological mechanisms¹⁹.
It’s only for pain relief.	Acupuncture is also used for stress, insomnia, digestive issues, and even fertility treatments²⁰.
Results are immediate.	While some people feel relief right away, others may require multiple sessions for lasting benefits.

Acupuncture in Western Medicine: A Growing Acceptance

Acupuncture has come a long way from being dismissed as pseudoscience. Today, organizations like the World Health Organization (WHO) and the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) recognize it as a legitimate treatment for over 60 conditions²¹.

In fact, acupuncture is now covered by many insurance plans in the U.S., Canada, and the U.K. for pain management and post-operative recovery²². This reflects a growing understanding that acupuncture offers more than just a placebo effect.

Bottom line

Acupuncture’s ability to relieve pain is no longer just anecdotal. With mechanisms rooted in neuroscience, inflammation control, and improved circulation, it bridges the gap between ancient wisdom and modern science. While it may not replace conventional treatments, it can serve as a powerful complement, especially for those seeking non-drug options for pain relief.

As Confucius once said, “The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” In the case of acupuncture, maybe it begins with a single needle.

How Does Acupuncture Work to Relieve Pain(20+ studies)

What Is Acupuncture?

The Science Behind Acupuncture: How Does It Work?