Actually, yes, to a greater or lesser degree Chinese physicians have used acupuncture for thousands of years. Acupuncture does not come from experimentation, it comes from experience. As is observed by physicians of all traditions, sometimes the disease is too far progressed. Sometimes the first few treatments don't help, and the individual quits before allowing sufficient treatment. Sometimes the acupuncturist is not sufficiently skilled.
Acupuncture is a complex skill.
It's not sufficient to just insert the needles, and then let the individual lie there for 20 minutes to an hour, sometimes connecting the needles to electricity. Needles never work by themselves, no matter if the needle is inserted into the correct point or not. When the needle touches the Qi-energy properly, the patient will have an unusual sensation, such as tingling, cramping, heaviness, or distention. If nothing but the needle is perceived, the acupuncturist needs to do further adjustments by hand method to help you get the sensation. If there is nothing but sharp pain, the treatment result will be slower.