Paul Gourguechon

Does acupuncture work?

The effects of acupuncture have been documented since at least 200 BC in China.  Today, scientific research has validated acupuncture for many conditions.  Notably, Chinese and Western scientists have proven that acupuncture increases levels of endorphins, the body’s pain relieving hormones. 

In addition to pain relief, the World Health Organization’s review of clinical trials has found acupuncture effective for many other conditions such as digestive, respiratory, gynecological, reproductive and psychological disorders.  For a complete list of WHO-endorsed conditions, see Conditions Treated 

How does acupuncture work?

The mechanisms by which acupuncture works are not yet fully understood scientifically.  Research has shown that it stimulates the release of endorphins and increases blood flow to diseased areas.  The traditional Chinese understanding is that acupuncture works by adjusting the body’s energy flow. This energy flows hands to head and foot to head along specific pathways called channels.  The channels pass through the organs and gather in precise locations on the body surface called acupoints.  Each acupoint has a specific effect on the body’s tissues and organs.  Illness occurs when the energy becomes blocked or depleted. Stimulating carefully chosen acupoints restores the smooth flow of energy to stop pain and allows the organs to function properly.

What does acupuncture feel like?

Acupuncture is performed with stainless steel, sterile, disposable needles that are slightly thicker than a strand of hair.  They are gently placed under the skin, and generally cause little or no discomfort.  The sensation is most often described as numbness, pressure, or tingling.  Most people find acupuncture relaxing and experience a feeling of well-being during and after treatment.

How many treatments are necessary?

The number of treatments necessary to provide positive results varies with the duration and nature of a problem. Long-standing problems take longer to resolve.  If your problem started 2 weeks ago or less, 1 or 2 treatments can often resolve a problem. If it started between 6 months and 2 weeks ago, a course of 4-6 treatments is generally adequate.  If you are seeking correction or cure of a chronic condition of over 6 months duration, a course of 6-12 treatments is recommended. Degenerative or difficult conditions will benefit from ongoing treatment. Improvement in pain levels and symptoms is usually apparent after the first or second treatment, so you can feel confident that your condition is improving. If you have no improvement after 4 treatments, it is unlikely that acupuncture can resolve the problem.

How can I know if acupuncture can help me?

A free 10-15 minute phone consultation (406-303-1714) with an experienced acupuncturist is the best way to determine if acupuncture can benefit a particular condition.   In most cases positive changes are evident after the first or second treatment.