If you’ve ever wondered how tiny needles can possibly make you feel better, you’re not alone. Acupuncture has been practiced for thousands of years, but today we also have modern research that explains how it works inside the body—both through ancient theory and biomedical science.
Let’s break it down in a way that actually makes sense.
What Acupuncture Is (and Isn't)
Acupuncture is the practice of inserting very thin, hair-like needles into specific points on the body. These points correspond to areas rich in nerves, connective tissue, blood supply, and lymphatic flow.
And no, acupuncture isn’t about “magic.”
It’s about changing how your body communicates, heals, and balances itself.
The Traditional Explanation: Restoring the Body’s Natural Balance
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is built around the concept of Qi (pronounced “chee”), often described as the body’s vital energy.
Think of it like this:
Qi = circulation + nerve signaling + metabolic function
Meridians = pathways that connect organ systems and body functions
Acupuncture points = access points to influence those pathways
When your Qi becomes blocked, sluggish, or out of balance, symptoms show up:
Pain
Stress
Hormonal imbalance
Fatigue
Digestive issues
Acupuncture helps unblock and rebalance this system, restoring healthy flow.
But what does this look like from a modern scientific perspective?
The Modern Explanation: What Science Says
Acupuncture works through several measurable, biologically active mechanisms. Here are the big ones:
1. It Activates Your Nervous System
When a needle is placed, it stimulates sensory nerves that send signals to your brain and spinal cord. This triggers the release of:
Endorphins (your natural painkillers)
Serotonin and dopamine (your mood stabilizers)
Adenosine (helps with inflammation and pain)
This is why people often feel relaxed, lighter, or “reset” after a session.
2. It Reduces Inflammation
Studies show acupuncture influences the immune system by reducing pro-inflammatory markers and increasing anti-inflammatory ones.
This helps people with:
Chronic pain
Arthritis
Autoimmune conditions
Injuries
Migraines
The result? Less swelling, less pain, and faster healing.
3. It Improves Blood Flow
When an acupuncture point is stimulated, blood vessels in that region dilate. This helps:
Deliver more oxygen
Remove metabolic waste
Heal tissues more effectively
Relax tight muscles
Athletes especially see benefits here—quicker recovery and better performance.
4. It Regulates Hormones and the Endocrine System
Acupuncture has been shown to influence the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, which regulates:
Stress
Cortisol levels
Sleep cycles
Reproductive hormones
Thyroid function
This is why acupuncture helps with:
PMS and menstrual pain
Fertility support
Menopause symptoms
Insomnia
Stress and anxiety
5. It Balances the “Fight-or-Flight” System
Most of us live in constant stress mode—sympathetic dominance.
Acupuncture shifts you into:
Parasympathetic mode = “rest, digest, repair.”
That’s the state where:
Pain decreases
Digestion improves
Sleep deepens
Healing accelerates
It’s essentially giving your body permission to repair itself.
So… Does Acupuncture Actually Work?
YES—because it helps your body do what it’s built to do:
➡️ Regulate
➡️ Heal
➡️ Rebalance
Modern research supports what traditional practitioners have said for centuries:
Acupuncture activates the body’s natural healing mechanisms in highly specific, predictable ways.
What You Can Expect in a Session
At my clinic, your first visit includes:
A full health assessment
Clear explanation of your treatment plan
A gentle, customized acupuncture session
Supportive options like cupping or gua sha if needed
Most patients feel calmer, lighter, and more grounded after their very first treatment. For a more in depth look at what a treatment is like at our Eden Prairie clinic, click here.
Ready to Experience It for Yourself?
f you’re curious about acupuncture—or if you’re dealing with pain, stress, hormones, or sleep issues—I’d love to help you feel better naturally.
👉 Book your session here (or send me a message with your questions!)