Acupuncture does more than just mask or block pain, but there are several aspects to this question. In all cases the short answer is that Acupuncture works by improving the flow of Qi and blood through the body, and better flow of energy and blood helps the body heal.
In the case of an injury such as a sprained joint, the swelling, pain and inflammation around the sprain are all signs that the flow of Qi and blood are being impeded. Acupuncture helps to reduce pain, swelling and inflammation by improving the circulation through the injured area. This can dramatically shorten the time it takes for the injury to heal. The body needs energy and blood to get to the affected joint to nourish and repair the injured tissues. Better circulation also sweeps away the toxins that come from the damaged tissue and cause inflammation.
Even in the case of a broken bone Acupuncture can shorten the time it takes for the break to heal. Of course Acupuncture can’t be done through a cast, but Acupuncture points above or below the cast can be used. Also, corresponding points on the healthy limb can be used to affect the injured area.
The healthy flow of Qi in its regular pathways throughout the whole body is a blueprint for a healthy being. Stimulating the Acupuncture points activates that healthy blueprint and helps to promote healing. Psychologically this is like shifting your unconscious thought process from “I’m injured” to “I’m healing, I’m becoming healthy”.
Even with the assistance of Acupuncture treatments it still takes some time for the body to heal from an injury. I tell my patients that with less pain and swelling constantly reminding you that you are healing, you have to be conscious of it for a while so that you don’t re-injure yourself.
In my next post I will address this same question in the context of functional health problems that didn’t come from an injury.