Fascia and the mechanism of acupuncture

SummaryIn light of the recent results consistently produced by meta-analyses of clinical acupuncture studies, acupuncturists have been challenged to re-evaluate the principles of acupuncture practice. This paper reconsiders acupuncture, positing that the fascia is the mechanism of action of acupuncture therapy. Acupuncture is defined behaviorally, and recent research findings related to the form and function of the fascia are applied to explain the mechanism of action of acupuncture therapy. Acupuncture is then viewed from a historical perspective, and fundamental principles of acupuncture therapy are reconsidered in terms of the fascia model. A conception of acupuncture emerges that is linked to a renewed understanding of ancient acupuncture principles and is characterized by a return to diagnosis and treatment rooted in skilled palpation.