Do acupuncturists really work, or is it just psychological?

Probably both.: Although there is very little legitimate evidence (some say there is none) that acupuncture "works, " as a physician, I have to admit that there are times when my patients tell me they got results from it. It usually is more effective for chronic issues (back pain, headaches, stress, anxiety) then things like ankle sprains or thyroid disease. My feeling: if they're better who cares why?

See below: A word of caution - many highly effective treatments for anxiety and depression such as cognitive behavior therapy are psychological. This aspect doesn't make them less real or less effective. The distinctions between psychological, psychiatric or other disorders of brain function are from outdated terminology - all of it arises through the brain.