Acupuncture is a technique that causes specific points on the body to be stimulated – most of the time, by inserting thin needles into the skin. It is a traditional practice used in Chinese medicine.

The results of a series of studies suggest that acupuncture may be useful in relieving generally chronic pain, such as low back pain, neck pain, and osteoarthritis/knee pain. It can also help in reducing the frequency of tension headaches and preventing migraines.s. Therefore, acupuncture is a reasonable option to be considered by people with chronic pain. However, clinical practice guidelines are inconsistent with recommendations on acupuncture.

The effects of acupuncture on the brain and the body, as well as the best way to measure them, are just beginning to be understood. Current evidence suggests that many factors — such as expectation and belief, which are unrelated to acupuncture needles — can play important roles in the beneficial effects of acupuncture for pain relief.