BOSTON -- A stroke is an attack on the brain, and it can leave its victims paralyzed, restricting movement and memory. Now researchers in Watertown are looking at whether an ancient tool can help.

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Stroke Survivor Improves ACUPUNCTURE AND STROKE To enroll in the study, call (617) 926-4271.

NewsCenter 5's Rhonda Mann reported that studies have shown acupuncture can alleviate pain after surgery and nausea after chemotherapy. The New England School of Acupuncture is now trying it on stroke patients with remarkable results.

Susan Slavet had a stroke that paralyzed one arm, but when her acupuncturist places needles in a few choice points, she can actually move it a little.

"I don't understand how it could work, putting needles in me," Slavet said. "It's just so counterintuitive to me, but it works, so you know what? Who cares?"

Researchers at the New England School of Acupuncture are examining how acupuncture might affect the brain of a stroke survivor.

"We'll be able to take pictures of the brain both before and after an acupuncture session to see if the parts of the brain that are related to sensation and motor function are activated," Dr. Peter Wayne said.

Mobility isn't the only issue for Slavet. Pain radiates down her left side. For her acupuncturist, boosting Slavet's recovery is a matter of balancing her body's energy, or chi.

"What I'm trying to do is send more chi and blood to that side so she has greater range of motion and less pain," acupuncturist Diane Iuliano said.

It's still unknown whether Slavet will regain any use of her arm, but the pain relief she experiences up to three days after her treatments is what keeps her coming back.

"My leg doesn't hurt anymore at all," Slavet said. "This is the beginning of another pain-free stretch. I can feel it coming."

While some patients do regain movement during the acupuncture sessions itself, it's unclear how long those effects last. The New England School of Acupuncture is enrolling 30 stroke patients in the study.