MCQ Detailed View

Acupuncture is a traditional medical treatment system that originated in ancient China and has been practiced for thousands of years. In this method, fine sterile needles are inserted into specific points of the body known as acupuncture points or meridians. The purpose is to stimulate these points to restore the natural balance of energy in the body, often referred to as Qi (pronounced “chee”) in traditional Chinese medicine.

The correct answer is Fine needles are pricked in the body because acupuncture does not rely on drugs, herbs, or electrical shocks for its main therapeutic effect. Instead, pain relief is achieved through needle stimulation, which triggers the nervous system to release natural chemicals such as endorphins (the body’s natural painkillers), serotonin, and dopamine. These substances help reduce the perception of pain and improve emotional well-being.

Acupuncture has been studied scientifically, and many researchers suggest that it works by:

1. 
   

   Stimulating nerve endings, which send signals to the brain to block pain pathways.

   
   


2. 
   

   Improving blood circulation around the targeted area, speeding up healing.

   
   


3. 
   

   Relaxing muscles and reducing inflammation, which further reduces pain.

   
   

Incorrect options explained:

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  Drugs are used (A): Not correct, as acupuncture is a drug-free therapy.

  
  


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  Herbs are used (B): While herbal medicine is part of traditional Chinese medicine, acupuncture itself does not involve herbs.

  
  


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  Electric shocks are applied (C): This applies to electro-acupuncture, a modern variation, but not to the classical acupuncture method.

  
  

Today, acupuncture is recognized worldwide as a complementary therapy for conditions like chronic pain, migraines, arthritis, and even stress-related disorders. Its acceptance highlights the integration of ancient healing practices with modern biological understanding.

Thus, the key mechanism of acupuncture in pain relief is the use of fine needles pricked in specific points of the body.