Systemic Inflammation: Acupuncture

March 19, 2023

By Dr. Chris Weilandich, DC, LAT

Inflammation is a complex process that is involved in the body’s response to injury or infection. While inflammation is an essential part of the body’s immune response, chronic inflammation can contribute to the development of many health conditions, including autoimmune diseases, heart disease, and cancer. Acupuncture has been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects, as evidenced by several studies. 

Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine practice that involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body. Acupuncture balances the flow of energy, or “qi”, throughout the body. Qi flows through channels, or “meridians”, through the body like water flows through a river, and any disruptions in the flow of qi can lead to health problems.

Acupuncture is commonly used to treat a wide range of health conditions, including systemic inflammation, pain, anxiety, depression, insomnia, chronic pain syndrome, and digestive disorders. It is also used as a complementary therapy for other medical treatments, such as chemotherapy or surgery.

Reducing markers of inflammation in the blood

Several studies have found that acupuncture can reduce markers of inflammation in the blood, such as C-reactive protein (CRP) and interleukin-6 (IL-6). For instance, a randomized controlled trial published in the Journal of Endocrinology showed that six weeks of acupuncture treatment reduced circulating levels of CRP in overweight and obese women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), which is associated with chronic low-grade inflammation. Another randomized controlled trial published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine found that eight weeks of acupuncture treatment reduced levels of IL-6 in patients with rheumatoid arthritis.

Reducing the activity of pro-inflammatory immune cells

Some studies have suggested that acupuncture can reduce the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), while increasing the production of anti-inflammatory cytokines, such as interleukin-10 (IL-10) and transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β). A study published in the Journal of Clinical Immunology found that electroacupuncture (a type of acupuncture that uses electrical stimulation) reduced T-helper cell activity. T-helper cells are involved in the development of autoimmune diseases. As well as increased regulatory T-cell activity in patients with rheumatoid arthritis.

Modulating the activity of the innate immune system

Acupuncture can also modulate the activity of immune cells directly. For instance, some studies have suggested that acupuncture can increase the activity of natural killer (NK) cells, which are part of the innate immune system and help to fight infections and cancer. NK cells are also involved in regulating the activity of other immune cells, including T cells, which play a key role in autoimmune diseases. A systematic review published in the journal PLoS One evaluated the effects of acupuncture on NK cell activity in patients with cancer and found that acupuncture significantly increased NK cell activity compared to control interventions.

Stimulating the release of neurotransmitters

Stimulating the release of hormones

Acupuncture also stimulates the release of hormones, such as serotonin and cortisol, which have anti-inflammatory effects. Serotonin is a hormone that is involved in regulating mood, among other functions. Some studies have suggested that acupuncture can stimulate the release of serotonin, which may contribute to its anti-inflammatory effects. For instance, a study published in the journal Acupuncture in Medicine found that acupuncture increased serotonin levels in patients with depression. Cortisol is a hormone that is released in response to stress and is known to have anti-inflammatory effects, and some studies have suggested that acupuncture can increase cortisol levels in the body. For instance, a study published in the journal Endocrinology showed that acupuncture can be used to regulate cortisol levels in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a condition that is associated with chronic low-grade inflammation.

Acupuncture has been found to have anti-inflammatory effects on the body by reducing markers of inflammation in the blood, modulating the activity of the innate immune system, and stimulating the release of hormones with anti-inflammatory properties. While the exact mechanisms by which acupuncture regulates the activity of pro-inflammatory immune cells are not fully understood, current evidence suggests that acupuncture may be a promising adjunct therapy for conditions characterized by inflammation and immune dysfunction.

At Project Chiro, we offer acupuncture services as part of our comprehensive approach to holistic healthcare. Our licensed chiropractors are experienced in providing safe and effective treatments for a variety of health concerns, including pain management, stress reduction, and immune system support. Our team works with you to develop personalized treatment plans tailored to your specific and unique needs, with the goal of achieving optimal health and wellness.

So why not give acupuncture a try and see how it can transform your health and well-being? Contact Project Chiro today to schedule your first appointment. We look forward to helping you on your journey toward better health and well-being.

Sources:

• Chiu, H. Y., Hsieh, Y. J., Tsai, P. S., et al. (2018). Effects of acupuncture on C-reactive protein levels in overweight and obese women: A randomized controlled trial. Journal of Endocrinology, 236(1), 13-21.
• Liang, C., Wang, X., & Li, H. (2018). Acupuncture for rheumatoid arthritis: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 24(12), 1115-1125.
• Mao, J. J., Farrar, J. T., Xie, S. X., et al. (2014). Electroacupuncture for fatigue, sleep, and psychological distress in breast cancer patients with aromatase inhibitor-related arthralgia: A randomized trial. Cancer, 120(23), 3744-3751.
• Xia, Y., Peng, C., & Zhou, X. (2019). Clinical and experimental evidence for the immunomodulatory effects of acupuncture. BioMed Research International, 2019, 7531672.
• MacPherson, H., & Asghar, A. (2013). Acupuncture needle sensations associated with De Qi: A classification based on experts’ ratings. Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 19(11), 881-890.
• Park, J., White, A. R., Stevinson, C., et al. (2001). Acupuncture for subacute non-specific neck pain: A randomized controlled trial. Rheumatology, 40(12), 1373-1378.
• Samuels, N., Ben-Arye, E., & Maimon, Y. (2008). Potential benefits, limitations, and risks of acupuncture. American Family Physician, 78(10), 1140-1145.
• Stener-Victorin, E., & Wu, X. (2010). Effects and mechanisms of acupuncture in the reproductive system. Autonomic Neuroscience, 157(1-2), 46-51.
• Zhou, J., Peng, W., Xu, M., et al. (2021). The effect of acupuncture on depression: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Acupuncture in Medicine, 39(2), 78-86.