How Acupuncture Works | Garden City, NY

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Many of my patients are curious about how acupuncture works. I created this video to explain the latest scientific research and theories. It’s very detailed, so if you prefer a simpler explanation, please read the blog below.

Video: Acupuncture Science, Research, and Theory

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Welcome to My Pure Acupuncture

My name is Joseph Causarano, a licensed acupuncturist in Garden City, NY. I’d like to give you an overview of acupuncture, its techniques, and the ways it can benefit your health.

The Acupuncture Needle

Acupuncture needles are sterile, superfine, stainless steel, and single-use. They are about as thick as a human hair and penetrate the skin with minimal discomfort. Their unique design allows precise stimulation of acupuncture points.

Acupuncture Points (Acupoints)

Acupoints are located in specific areas on the body, often near neurovascular nodes, which contain sensory fibers, blood vessels, lymphatic vessels, and mast cells. Research using CT scans shows these structures are not found in non-acupuncture points.

How Acupuncture Stimulates Healing

When a needle is inserted into an acupoint, a microcurrent is generated by the interaction with body electrolytes. This stimulates neurons, fibroblasts, and myoblasts, sending signals to the spinal cord, brain, and organs.

Benefits Through Muscular and Neurochemical Effects

Acupuncture helps muscles release tension (dry needling), promotes local blood flow, and triggers the release of neuropeptides, endorphins, and cephalin. This combination reduces pain, speeds healing, and promotes relaxation.

Somato-Autonomic Reflex and Back-Shu Points

Acupuncture stimulates spinal nerves (afferent fibers) along the cervical, thoracic, and lumbar spine. These signals influence local and internal organs via the autonomic nervous system. Back-Shu points along the spine are commonly used to treat internal disorders as well as pain.

Distal Point Treatments

Acupuncture can use distal points—specific acupoints far from the affected area—to trigger autonomic reflexes in the brain. For example, a point on the leg can improve gastric function by sending signals through the sciatic and vagal nerves to the digestive system.

Neurotransmitter Effects

Acupuncture stimulates the release of endorphins, serotonin, and dopamine in the brain’s limbic system, influencing mood, appetite, pain modulation, and behavior. This explains acupuncture’s effectiveness for headaches, emotional regulation, and addiction therapy.

Neuroendocrine Effects

Acupuncture regulates hormone secretion via the neuroendocrine system. For example, electro-acupuncture has been shown to help restore reproductive hormone balance in conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome.

Is Acupuncture a Placebo?

While sham acupuncture can have minor effects, research shows real acupuncture produces unique sensations and superior outcomes, even in controlled animal studies. The Somato-Autonomic Reflex demonstrates its systemic physiological effects.

The science behind acupuncture is complex but fascinating, showing why acupuncture is effective for pain, internal disorders, and overall wellness.

Wishing you the very best of health,
Joseph Causarano LAc.
Treat – Heal – Live

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