I haven't tried acupuncture, but my sister has used it for years to help with chronic pain, and I find it quite intriguing. Besides, I am not required to be 100 percent consistent. I had read and heard so many positive reports about acupuncture, but still couldn't get my mind around it. I have to say that I suspected much of the reported benefits were due to the fact that everyone seemed to also be taking chinese herbs in conjunction with the acupuncture. The provincial government has just announced the formation of a new governing body or college to regulate standards and education of practitioners.
Needles are but one way.
It is a fascinating healing tradition. I have tried to stay current on it since that time. The fellow from NIH back in the 1970's said they found galvanic differences at the acupuncture sites and theorized that the pathways were some sort of tactile ennervation system. His example was understanding the power of a touch from a loved one, versus the power of the touch from a threatening stranger. Just a touch alone can trigger a major cascade of physiological response.