theory needed..HELP please

[rdeyvutligpitteyl]

I am trying to find out a conventional theory what might explain why Acupuncture work in the managment of a painful condition.
any clues greatfully recieved
Many thanks in advance.....

 

[ImaceWala]

I think you mean that you need a conventional theory that might explain why acupunture works for pain - just found this by doing a simple 'google':

Preclinical studies have documented acupuncture's effects, but they have not been able to fully explain how acupuncture works within the framework of the Western system of medicine that is commonly practiced in the United States. It is proposed that acupuncture produces its effects through regulating the nervous system, thus aiding the activity of pain-killing biochemicals such as endorphins and immune system cells at specific sites in the body. In addition, studies have shown that acupuncture may alter brain chemistry by changing the release of neurotransmitters and neurohormones and, thus, affecting the parts of the central nervous system related to sensation and involuntary body functions, such as immune reactions and processes that regulate a person's blood pressure, blood flow, and body temperature.

 

[coopyey]

ohhhh thankyou very much......will read up and see what I can add.......
thanks alot

 

[ibeaver]

To add:

The Gate Theory suggests that pain impulses are blocked from reaching the spinal cord or brain at various "gates" to these areas .

Another theory suggests that body produce narcotic-like substances called endorphins, which reduce pain.

Other theories suggest that the placebo effect, external suggestion (hypnosis), and cultural conditioning are important factors.

 

[syco2236]

Well that is a good question. One way of looking at it is that the meridians are flows of subtle electricity that feed the body. Any disturbances in that flow can cause pain or other symptoms. The flow may be blocked, or reversed or be too strong or too weak.

As a professional acupuncturist I first take the pulses - one pulse point for each meridian and that tells me where there might be a blockage or if the energy system is too low generally. This is to simplify it considerably however.

I often try to explain it to patients as being like a cross between the central heating system and the electrical system in your house. Get an airlock in a radiator and the room goes cold. Get a blockage and the pressure builds up! I also use the analogy of the underground system in London. A broken down train on the Northern Line can cause chaos everywhere if it is left for long enough.

Using the needles we try to restore the flow. Knees are great to work on as a few needles placed above and below the knee can bring instant relief. Not all problems are that simple unfortunately!

There are of course other ways of explaining it, but I hope this might give you one way of understanding it.

Christine, LicAc MBAcC