Acupuncture is one of the oldest, most commonly used systems of healing in the world. Originating in China some 3500 years ago, only in the last three decades has become popular in the United States. In 1993, the Food and Drug Administration estimated that Americans made up to 12 million visits per year to acupuncture practitioners.

Several theories have been presented as to exactly how acupuncture works. One theory suggests that pain impulses are blocked from reaching the spinal cord or brain by various "gates" to these areas. Since the majority of acupuncture points are interconnected to or located near neural structures, this suggests that acupuncture stimulates the nervous system. Another theory suggests that acupuncture stimulates the body to produce narcotic like substances called endorphins, which, reduce pain. Other studies have found that other pain relieving substances called opioids may be released into the body during acupuncture treatments.

Unlike hypodermic needles, acupuncture needles are solid and hair-thin and are designed not to cut the skin. While each person experiences acupuncture differently, most people feel only a light prick as the needles are inserted. Some people reportedly feel a sensation of excitement, while others feel relaxed.

At Ross Clinic we have been using acupuncture over the last 25 years when indicated for acute and chronic pain.