The Nike Field Reporter

When I was in high school sprained ankles and sore knees were treated with good old fashion ice. These days an increasing number of athletes are turning to acupuncture to treat injuries and gain a competitive edge. Acupuncture is a 3,000 year-old Chinese medicine that consists of inserting tiny needles throughout different points of the human body, which consequently increases endorphins and circulation.

Recently I decided to see Dr. Jessica Yunker, an acupuncturist in New York City, to discuss the growing trend and even experience it for myself. Prior to the treatment, Dr. Yunker discussed my daily lifestyle, my diet and my medical history in order for her to properly choose the points on my body that would effectively improve my health and enhance my athletic performance. All the needles came out of sterilized bags and for the most part there was no pain when she inserted them. For about a half hour, I laid down looking like a porcupine and allowed only positive thoughts to enter my mind.

When the treatment was finished, I felt an immediate result. I had no athletic injuries to treat but I walked out of Dr. Yunker’s office feeling both relaxed and happy. While the results for acupuncture vary from person to person, Dr. Yunker told me faith in the practice is not a prerequisite for it to be effective. Recent studies have begun to specifically explain why and how the treatment works. While I am not a scientist, I can tell you that even though my body doesn’t run on a battery, acupuncture made me feel recharged.

-Lauren Brill