Skepticism surrounding acupuncture is lifting in light of modern medical reports that validate the practice. Acupuncture, the Chinese treatment of using needles to encourage the flow of energy through the body, indeed produces measurable results, say researchers.

Practitioners suggest that eye conditions are just one of the physical ailments that acupuncture relieves. In a recent study at the University of Maryland, an MRI was taken to determine how acupuncture of the little toe impacts the visual cortex. The eyes and little toe are said to lay on the same “meridian,” that is, pathway throughout the body that is connected to every organ. The MRI demonstrated increased activity in the brain’s visual cortex resulting from acupuncture.

Acupuncture can be used in conjunction with traditional medicine or as an alternative treatment for an assortment of ailments, from asthma and lower back pain to carpal tunnel syndrome and menstrual cramps. Some of the medical theories surrounding acupuncture’s healing effects include:

• Releases endorphins, the body’s “feel good” chemicals, in response to pain
• Improves blood circulation in the areas of treatment
• Controls inflammation by minimizing cortisol levels, a hormone that contributes to inflammation
• Encourages heart function by affecting areas of the brain that are connected to the coronary system

This age-old tradition is starting to get the recognition it deserves. Dr. Lao Lixing, physician, acupuncturist and lead researcher, reported an increase in the number of patients as well as physicians who are interested in learning about the alternative medicine practice. Not surprisingly, interest in other traditional Chinese methods, including the use of herbs and nutrients to help relieve stress, has also increased.

Source: Mundell, E.J. (2005). Americans embrace acupuncture’s healing power. Yahoo! News. December 22. Retrieved online February 9, 2006 from
http://health.yahoo.com/news/142287;_ylt=AjQkYkg6LnOEuXT_NPwMHA3xurcF