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URL of this page: https://medlineplus.gov/acupuncture.html

Acupuncture

Summary

Acupuncture has been practiced in China and other Asian countries for thousands of years. Acupuncture involves stimulating specific points on the body. This is most often done by inserting thin needles through the skin, to cause a change in the physical functions of the body.

Research has shown that acupuncture reduces nausea and vomiting after surgery and chemotherapy. It can also relieve pain. Researchers don't fully understand how acupuncture works. It might aid the activity of your body's pain-killing chemicals. It also might affect how you release chemicals that regulate blood pressure and flow.

NIH: National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health

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Clinical Trials

Journal Articles References and abstracts from MEDLINE/PubMed (National Library of Medicine)

The information on this site should not be used as a substitute for professional medical care or advice. Contact a health care provider if you have questions about your health.