A recent research study shows that acupuncture may work by creating long term changes in your brain cells.
The research carried out by Richard Harris, a neuroscientist at the University of Michigan, compared real acupuncture with placebo acupuncture.
The researchers were expecting the effects of real acupuncture on the brain to be similar to placebo acupuncture, but more pronounced.
What he found was that the real acupuncture had a totally different effect on the brain cells.
While placebo acupuncture simply triggered a short term spike in endorphins (feel good and pain killing chemicals), real acupuncture actually changed the brain cells in the long term so they were more receptive to the endorphins.
This explains why people experience a lasting sense of wellbeing from having acupuncture. It also explains why cortisol levels are lowered in the long term and not just the short term.
It also goes some way to explaining why our patients say things like:
“When I first started acupuncture I had just been diagnosed with fibromyalgia and was at my lowest point both physically and mentally. Both the treatment and personal care that I have received from Gabriella has put me back on the road to well being and health - a place I was scared I would never get to again. I can't believe how well I am feeling now. I didn't realise the power of acupuncture on mind, body and spirit - and will not lose it from my life again.”
- Katy, London NW6
If you’d like to find out if you’re a good fit for our help just email me at:
Please include:
- Your phone number
- A good time to reach you
I set aside some time each week to do informal assessments over the phone.
With my 20 years experience in both Neuroscience and Acupuncture, I am often able to see things that your doctor may have missed.
I look forward to talking to you.
Michael Arnold
BSc Neuroscience LicAc.