We’re all looking for ways to reduce our stress. We try going to the gym, we take classes, go for walks, listen to music and play sports. These may be helpful in reducing stress, but may not get at the root causes. Often stress is caused by physical issues (stomach pain, headaches, high blood pressure). People try going to their primary care physician, but sometimes they may not get the relief they need and they seek alternative or complementary treatments. There are naturopaths, chiropractors, massage therapists, homeopaths…the list goes on.

One particular treatment that has steadily gained attention over the last thirty years is acupuncture. People seek acupuncture for many different issues, from back pain to depression. There’s a lot of research about the effectiveness of acupuncture, but there is also evidence that there may be a placebo effect going on: people feel better because they’re going to a professional, and it doesn’t matter where the needles are placed.

How does acupuncture work? Is it right for you? What should you expect from acupuncture treatment? These are some of the questions we discuss with Dr. Jay Sordean, who heads The Redwood Clinic, in Berkeley, California. Join the conversation. For more information about Dr. B, visit his web site.