MARINE CORPS AIR STATION IWAKUNI, Japan -- The classic Marine Corps adage, "Pain is weakness leaving the body," finds a literal application for Station residents availing themselves of Japanese acupuncture therapists.
A quick perusal of the yellow pages reveals a dozen such experts within six miles of the Station. According to Yoko Seo, the Station culture specialist, there's one reason acupuncture therapy is popular in Japan.
"It works," she states. "Even though Japan is modernized, many people still believe in it, but there isn't really a scientific explanation."
Attempting a scientific explanation for sticking tiny needles into a human body might present a challenge, but according to a health report by the British Broadcasting Company, there's a method to the madness.
"Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese art based on the theory that Qi energy flows along meridians in the body, and can be stimulated by inserting fine needles at specific points," the BBC Web site states.
"Qi has to do with people believing in the natural power of the body," Seo said. "This idea was imported into Japan around 400 B.C."
Searching for a clear explanation of exactly how the process works isn't easy. The 2,000-year-old therapy retains its mystery to this day, though it's effectiveness continues to be proven.
According to the BBC Web site, acupuncture is used today to treat asthma, addiction, arthritis, depression, anxiety, blood pressure disorder and problems with the digestive system.
The therapy's reluctance to be pinned down into a formula could have to do with a common Western thought that acupuncture is simply another method for pain relief.
Jonathan Monckton, director of the Research Council for Complementary Medicine, said that students of acupuncture must first obtain the right mind-set.
"In the East, acupuncture is seen as a whole system of health care, whereas in the West the focus seems to be on the relief of pain as a way of validating its effectiveness," Monckton said. "This could be seen to be rather a restrictive approach."
Monckton suggested a holistic approach in studying acupuncture therapy.
"In Western medicine, two plus two equals four, but in Eastern medicine, it could mean something else," affirmed Seo.
Given its benefits, is acupuncture really worth the pain involved?
According to the BBC Web site, there is little to no pain during treatment. A slight pinprick is the extent of the sensory experience.
Station residents can arrange a treatment at a local acupuncture clinic for as little as ¥3,000 for half an hour.