He turned to fMRI because of its ability to view brain physiology, as well as chemistry. When he stimulated these points on 20 volunteers, the fMRI scans of 12 subjects indicated an activation in the visual cortex. At least you know where the source is. He found that not all acupoints show brain activity when stimulated. Even the technique of the individual acupuncturist can affect results, he said.
Different schools recognize different acupoints.
The locations of many are disputed. Additionally, different people respond differently to acupuncture treatment. And he feels that even bias on the part of the subject can negatively affect acupuncture's effectiveness. Mapping Relief Dr. Cho believes his research will provide new understanding of the nature of pain. When general pain-relieving points are stimulated, it shows up in the subcortical gray area, he said.