Why does acupuncture help the symptoms of PTSD?  Acupuncture is well known for its ability to relieve stress. Correctly placed needles help the body re-regulate itself from the effects of stress, PTSD, depression and anxiety. In turn, this allows the individual to focus on their activities and enable them to deal with daily events.

https://www.acufinder.com/Acupuncture+Information/Detail/Acupuncture+Gives+Hope+To+Patients+With+PTSD

A pilot study shows that acupuncture may help people with posttraumatic stress disorder. Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is an anxiety disorder that can develop after exposure to a terrifying event or ordeal in which grave physical harm occurred or was threatened. Traumatic events that may trigger PTSD include violent personal assaults, natural or human-caused disasters, accidents, or military combat.

http://nccam.nih.gov/research/results/spotlight/092107.htm

Elizabeth Peterson, a former combat medic and owner of Acupuncture for Soldiers, agrees that acupuncture works best for PTSD patients when used in conjunction with traditional therapy.

http://www.statesman.com/news/news/local/military-tries-acupuncture-to-treat-troops-for-pts/nRtj7/