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There are recorded cases of acupuncture working on dogs. If acupuncture truely was just a placebo effect there couldn't be any improvement possible in animals because you can't get across to the animal that what you're doing is supposed to be helpful.
The 'gate theory', which states that acupuncture works because stimulation of one section of the nervous system inhibits the effect of another part of the nervous system, is plausible but I don't think it's very likely. Locations where needles are inserted do not always correspond to the locations of major nerves.
The theory behind acupuncture that I believe is correct involves the human body's bioelectrical fields. Needles are inserted at places where the body has a high electrical conductance, and this alters the conductance just slightly in this area, making it more receptive. Since the electrical fields in different parts of the body are subtly interconnected, a slight change in one area can produce a noticable change in another area. This in turn can promote healing and restoration.
That's about the $0.02 explanation. I could go on if people really wanted but I suggest that those who are interested in the theory should find an acupuncturist and ask questions face to face.
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