Every time my head starts throbbing and I feel a headache coming on, I take my left hand and put pressure on the space between my pointer finger and thumb on my right hand. My mom taught me this little trick when I was younger. She was right!

Now new science is demonstrating just how accurate the ancient system of accupuncture/accupressure truly is. Turns out that the ancient accupuncture body maps align almost perfectly with modern medical neurological maps, at least for one common pain condition, myofascial pain. A recent study conducted by Peter T. Dorsher, M.D., at the Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville, Florida, reported an overlap of myofascial trigger points and acupuncture points, especially in the treatment of pain disorders. According to Dr. Dorsher, "Myofascial pain causes pain and tender muscles that usually just involve one region of the body (neck, shoulder, low back) though it can be widespread throughout the body." The pain centers itself around sensitive points, known as trigger points, in the muscles, and worsens as time passes.

What Is Acupuncture?
Originating in China, acupuncture is one of the oldest methods of healing. Fine needles are inserted into precise locations on the body to restore normal functions and free up qi energy. Releasing qi helps relieve pain by fixing the imbalances of flow. The meridian theory explains how qi connects all of the body's organs and tissues. A person starts to experience pain and poor health when the course of energy flow is obstructed.
 
Acupuncture is popular among patients with chronic pain because it has many benefits and few side effects. Dr. Dorsher notes, "The needles only rarely cause bruising or other problems, and expensive toxic medications can be avoided." He continues, "Most people with pain can be helped with therapy, medications, injections, and/or surgeries. Even if the problem is not 'fixable,' it can often be improved with one or combinations of these interventions." If you haven't considered it yet, acupuncture might be a great treatment option if you're experiencing pain.
 
Some facts about acupuncture:

1. If you feel nauseous, an effectual pressure point is on the inside of the arm, about 2 inches above the wrist
2. Any one acupuncture point will have several diverse functions
3. According to acupuncturists, there is a point on the head you can press to control your appetite. It is located in the hollow just in front of the flap of the ear.
4. According to the National Women's Health Resource Center, about 2.1 million people in the United States undergo acupuncture each year

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