Does Acupuncture Work?

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Once again, according to the NIH consensus statement on acupuncture ( http://consensus.nih.gov/1997/1997Acupuncture107html.htm ), they state "Many studies in animals and humans have demonstrated that acupuncture can cause multiple biological responses. These responses can occur locally, i.e., at or close to the site of application, or at a distance, mediated mainly by sensory neurons to many structures within the central nervous system. This can lead to activation of pathways affecting various physiological systems in the brain as well as in the periphery. A focus of attention has been the role of endogenous opioids in acupuncture analgesia. Considerable evidence supports the claim that opioid peptides are released during acupuncture and that the analgesic effects of acupuncture are at least partially explained by their actions. That opioid antagonists such as naloxone reverse the analgesic effects of acupuncture further strengthens this hypothesis. Stimulation by acupuncture may also activate the hypothalamus and the pituitary gland, resulting in a broad spectrum of systemic effects. Alteration in the secretion of neurotransmitters and neurohormones and changes in the regulation of blood flow, both centrally and peripherally, have been documented. There is also evidence of alterations in immune functions produced by acupuncture. Which of these and other physiological changes mediate clinical effects is at present unclear."

They also concede that "Although much remains unknown regarding the mechanism(s) that might mediate the therapeutic effect of acupuncture, the panel is encouraged that a number of significant acupuncture-related biological changes can be identified and carefully delineated. Further research in this direction not only is important for elucidating the phenomena associated with acupuncture, but also has the potential for exploring new pathways in human physiology not previously examined in a systematic manner."

So further research is required, but NIH emphasized that acupuncture-related biological changes can be identified and carefully delineated.

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First - the "NIH" statement was by the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) and was packed with acupuncture proponents and devoid of skeptics or even neutral scientists. I hardly consider that statement authoritative or free from bias.

Second - even that biased panel was luke warm on acupuncture. That could not conclude that acupuncture was established for any indications -although they tried to spin it as positively as possible.

Regarding a mechanism - as I said original - any identified and speculative mechanisms are all very non-specific. They are generic responses to physical manipulation - like counter irritation, perhaps some endorphin release, etc. There is no mechanism specific to acupuncture. And, of course, none of these non-specific mechanisms have anything to do with qi, nor could they explain any medical application of acupuncture. At best they could account for mild local temporary pain decrease.