Acupuncture, when used as part of a broader treatment plan, can help manage myofascial pain, which often accompanies neurological disorders that trigger involuntary muscle contractions. It also shows promise for radicular syndromes stemming from spinal nerve pathology and for various peripheral nerve conditions. Maria Kareeva, a reflexologist at the European Medical Center, explains that the degree of benefit depends on the specific illness, how advanced it is, and the patient’s responsiveness to this modality.
In her practice, Kareeva has observed cases where combining acupuncture with massage produced noticeable improvements for individuals dealing with movement disorders such as Parkinson’s disease, particularly in reducing muscle tone and stiffness associated with the condition. The consensus among practitioners in her field is clear: the strongest results often come from an integrated approach. A limited course of acupuncture alone may not alleviate mood concerns; psychological support from a qualified therapist is frequently necessary. Some research indicates that acupuncture can influence brain chemistry by releasing dopamine and endorphins, which may contribute to mood stabilization and relief from depressive symptoms, especially when used as part of a comprehensive treatment strategy.
Kareeva notes that an integrated practice also shows benefits for gynecological and urological health, including issues linked to reproductive function. This supports the idea that acupuncture can support overall well-being when combined with other therapeutic modalities tailored to the individual patient’s needs.
When asked about why acupuncture works, the expert emphasizes the variability of findings across studies. The mechanisms may include enhanced microcirculation and local blood flow at the site of treatment, as well as the release of various biochemical substances that help modulate pain perception. This remains a field with ongoing inquiry, where multiple explanations may apply to different conditions and patient populations.
In a broader context, major health organizations have begun to scrutinize traditional approaches to healing. A recent international summit on alternative medicine highlighted acupuncture as a topic of interest, particularly regarding its potential role in complementary care and its alignment with global health initiatives. The discussions underscored that interest in traditional therapies is evolving, with researchers in several countries assessing when these methods may offer meaningful benefits and how they can be integrated responsibly into modern medical practice.
Historical observations point to the long-standing use of traditional Chinese medicine and its potential relevance for conditions such as heart failure, where some practitioners have reported positive outcomes. While evidence continues to accumulate, clinicians emphasize that patient selection, timing, and coordination with conventional therapies remain crucial to achieving the best possible results.