It stimulates peripheral nerves and causes the release of endorphins and monoamines which block pain. In addition to its analgesic effect, acupuncture also has been shown to promote healing of the skin. Needle injury in acupuncture disrupts cell membranes and generates long-lasting currents involved in repair and regeneration. 19 EA studies suggest that it stimulates the organized healing of burned skin and the healing of chronic skin ulcers. Some reports indicate acupuncture and EA may be helpful in the management of herpes-related pain.
Cupping has a long history in the West for the treatment of bronchopneumonia and acute myelitis.
Applied to the skin, cupping stimulates a homeostatic response and circulation to the specific dermatome. 28 PDGF attracts cells and is the primary mitogen responsible for cell proliferation. Body cells are normally exposed to the plasma filtrate and are only exposed to PDGF when there is injury present. Meditation has been linked to stress reduction 29 and more recently shown to be useful in reducing exercise-induced myocardial ischemia in patients with coronary artery disease. 30 Meditation induces a deep, restful state, and helps to balance the autonomic nervous system.