Low power laser beams are being used to stimulate the pressure points of traditional acupuncture. The technique is finding wide use in Western Europe and, to a lesser extent, China. Conventional needle acupuncture came into vogue in the mid 1970’s, after China opened up communications with the rest of the world. Laser acupuncture followed, although apparently it was not exclusively a Chinese development. An indication of the popularity of laser acupuncture is the fact that some 2,000 laser systems for performing acupuncture have been sold, mostly in Western Europe.

Laser acupuncture is performed in several places in China, although the procedure seems largely confined to the larger cities, notably Shanghai, a centre of laser research, and Peking (Beijing). Some Chinese practitioners say that lasers are more effective than needles. Chinese researchers report success rates of 80 to 85 percent with lasers, compared to 70 percent with needles.

The method is popular because it is painless, hygienic, and quick. Laser acupuncture is the only form of acupuncture suitable for children and nervous adults.

The laser powers used are generally so low that the patient doesn’t even feel any warmth from the beam. No one can explain how a laser beam simulates the effects of an acupuncture needle. Some practitioners of needle acupuncture remain sceptical of the laser approach. Many more orthodox physicians remain sceptical about the value of any type of acupuncture, and laser acupuncture has not been officially about the value of any type of acupuncture, and laser acupuncture has not been officially recognized as an effective technique by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. However, the FDA can regulate only sales of medical instruments, not the actions of individual doctors.