Acupuncture can relieve pain, decrease inflammation, relax muscles, and help with a number of specific medical conditions. Studies have shown that acupuncture can have both local effects, such as improving bladder and bowel function, and wider (systemic) effects such as reduced flushes in menopause and improved sleep. Acupuncture can produce hormonal effects too which is partly why it is thought to help with some gynaecological problems. Researchers have found that acupuncture can affect most of the body’s systems – the nervous system, muscles, hormone output, circulation, antibody production and allergic responses, as well as the respiratory, digestive, urinary and reproductive systems and skin. Of course – as with any medical treatment – there are no guarantees of success. Some people respond well, others don’t. But if you’re suffering from any condition that acupuncture may help with, it might well be worth a try.
