Can acupuncture help ease depression?
Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese method of healing. It is used to prevent and cure specific diseases and conditions by sticking very fine, solid needles into specific points on the body. Some believe it stimulates the body’s ability to resist or overcome illnesses and conditions by correcting imbalances. Acupuncture also prompts the body to produce chemicals that decrease or eliminate painful sensations. Acupuncture is most effective at treating headaches, menstrual cramps, and low back, neck, or muscle pain. It can also be tried for arthritis, facial pain, pain from shingles, spastic colon, colitis, obesity, and addictions to nicotine or other drugs. Acupuncture can be effective for pain relief, but its other benefits are not yet proven.