Acupuncture, Anxiety and Immunity

Anxiety is a common psychological state in which the basic message is “get away from this situation.” 

This state brings about numerous physiologic changes including surges of the hormone adrenaline, increased heart rate and elevated blood pressure, and increased blood flow to the major muscle groups as the body prepares for “fight or flight.” However for many people, anxiety becomes too frequent.  Chronic anxiety may cause the individual to anticipate the worst, be constantly irritable and tense, and experience panic attacks.  It also has a specific impact on the musculoskeletal system;  persistent elevated levels of adrenaline cause tension in the postural muscles of the lower back and weight-bearing muscles.  Long-term results may include chronic pain and inflammation, and these problems create more anxiety for the person, establishing a tiring circle of anxiety and pain. 

The goal of acupuncture is to create harmony within ourselves and between ourselves and the world.  It is understood that “feeling” and “intellect” reside in all the cells of the body.  If a person is depressed, Chinese medicine understands this as stagnant or deficient energy.  The idea that behavioral states and CNS processes are associated with immune function suggests that there may be a relationship between anxiety and the immune system. Acupuncture increases levels of white blood cells, specific hormones and antibodies.  It also helps constrict and dilate blood vessels, promoting the body’s release of vasodilators (histamines), as well as elevating levels of endorphins and neurotransmitters.  According to Cindy Jones, PhD “There is evidence that acupuncture can have a beneficial effect on the immune system and on treating infectious diseases as well.”

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