Health Brief

ACUPUNCTURE'S EFFECT ON BLOOD FLOW IN THE BRAIN COULD EXPLAIN WHY IT'S AN EFFECTIVE TREATMENT

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A recent study revealed that Acupuncture decreases blood flow to key areas of the brain when applied to certain pain-relief points. This could give researchers a possible explanation as to how Acupuncture relieves pain and treats addiction.

Researchers at Harvard Medical School studied the effects of Acupuncture on a group of 20 healthy volunteers. MRIs were taken before, during, and after Acupuncture treatment to assess changes in blood flow and amounts of oxygen in the blood.

When Acupuncture needles were inserted to points on the hand associated with pain relief, MRI scans showed a decrease in blood flow to certain areas of the brain within seconds of volunteers reporting a heaviness on their hands. According to Acupuncturists, this sensation is a sign that the treatment is working correctly.

When patients reported pain, the MRI revealed an increase in blood flow to these same areas of the brain.

"When there's less blood, the brain isn't working as hard," said Rosen. "In effect, Acupuncture is quieting down key regions of the brain," he noted.

The specific areas of the brain are associated with mood, pain and craving, which could explain the effectiveness in treating depression, eating problems, addiction and pain.

Reduced blood flow could change levels of dopamine in the brain — a reward chemical that surges in reaction to drugs, food, pleasurable sights, and well-liked objects. This could also trigger the release of endorphins, the brain's natural pain reliever and comforting chemicals.

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SOURCE: USA Today, March 4, 2004.