Medical acupuncture respects our contemporary understanding of neuromuscular anatomy and pain physiology while embracing the classical Chinese perception of a subtle circulation network. This hybrid acupuncture approach expresses the best of both worlds by describing a context in which to organize patient symptoms that usually escape attention in the standard medical evaluation. Musculoskeletal problems have been shown to be the most frequently and successfully treated disorders. The location of the pain is identified neuroanatomically and according to the acupuncture channel in whose territory it lies. Along with many other physician acupuncturists, I use a hybrid model which combines Traditional Chinese Acupuncture, French Energetics Acupuncture, Korean Hand Acupuncture, Scalp Acupuncture, Five Phases Acupuncture, Neuro-anatomical Acupuncture, Ear Acupuncture, and electro-Acupuncture.
How Does Acupuncture Work?
Studies suggest that low frequency electroacupuncture stimulates the release of β-endorphin, enkephalin and endomorpin,which then bind to the μ- and δ-oipoid receptors. High frequency electroacupncture stimulates dynorphin which binds to the κ-opioid receptor. Acupuncture can also harmonize the autonomic nervous system and suppress inflammation. The analgesic effect of acupuncture is hypothesized to be through immune, hormonal and nervous systems. Within these systems, several pathways have been postulated, including the HPA axis, the ANS and the descending inhibitory pathway hypothalamus-PAG-raphe nucleus- spinal cord.
Limitations of the Scope of Acupuncture?
Although acupuncture has been established as an effective tool to treat many forms of musculoskeletal pain, it has limited use in dealing with the consequences of spinal cord injuries and stroke. Additionally, acupuncture is usually not useful for thalamically mediated pain or in the treatment of chronic neurodegenerative diseases. Acupuncture as a sole therapy does not significantly help with chronic inflammatory and immune-mediated disorders such as ulcerative colitis, rheumatoid arthritis, and collagen-vascular diseases. Likewise, acupuncture is not used as the primary intervention for chronic fatigue states or HIV disease. There can however be some symptom control with using acupuncture in all of these conditions.