There was very positive news on the medical benefits of acupuncture in a 2010 article by the Wall Street Journal. MRI scans of the brain show the "calming effects" acupuncture has on patients with chronic pain. Interestingly enough, the article explains that, "U.S. Navy, Air Force and Army doctors are using acupuncture to treat musculoskeletal problems, pain and stress in stateside hospitals and combat zones in Iraq and Afghanistan." It also explains that acupuncture "cause[s] the release of endorphins," brain chemicals that naturally relieve pain and promote a feeling of well-being, and is "generally safe."
brain scans in WSJ