This theory was based on clinical studies that reported inserting acupuncture needles in specific points triggered the production of endorphins in the cerebrospinal fluid. This finding may help explain some of the analgesic effects seen with acupuncture therapy.

Michigan State University

There is no definitive scientific theory regarding the mechanisms of action that render acupuncture effective. However, there are three main theories that have been proposed that look at how acupuncture actually works and affects the body.

How does acupuncture work?

Chon, T. Y., &amp; Lee, M. C. (2013, October 1). Acupuncture. Mayo Clinic Proceedings. Retrieved January 22, 2023, from https://www.mayoclinicproceedings.org/article/S0025-6196%2813%2900513-2/fulltext 

Acupuncture Mayo Clinic Proceedings

This theory explains that acupuncture works through the nervous system and alleviates pain. The theory states that the nervous system is made of nerves that transmit and inhibit pain. These nerves join together in the substantia gelatinosa. The substantia gelatinosa receives direct input from fibers, especially those responsible for pain. Acupuncture could help pain relief by stimulating the nerve fibers responsible for pain, which lowers pain input and therefore relieves pain in the patient. 

The Gate of Pain Theory

This theory states that there are two types of nerve fibers. They are the A-beta and C nerve fibers. The A-beta nerve fibers are large and fast conducting. The C nerve fibers are small and slow conducting. The theory states that when there is a high amount of impulses received, the A-beta fibers close the gate in the substantia gelatinosa and the painful impulses are prevented from passing in the C fibers. Acupuncture may work as a pain reliever by stimulating points that affect the A-beta nerve fibers. The needles may make a stream of painless impulses that transmit to the substantia gelatinosa which causes the gate to close and the pain impulses to stop.

The Two Gate Control Theory

The Counter Pain Treatment Theory states that when the body feels pain in one part of the body, the pain in another part of the body becomes less noticeable. Therefore, the slight pain that acupuncture provides may relieve the pain in another part of the body. 

Counter Pain Treatment Theory

Endorphin Model theory

Institute of Australia. (2018, March). HOW DOES ACUPUNCTURE WORK? Women's Health and Research. Retrieved January 22, 2023, from https://www.whria.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/How-Does-Acupuncture-Work.pdf 

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