Acupuncture may sound like a treatment that might not help chronic pain, but this age-old practice is now considered an acceptable supplementary treatment for certain pains and conditions. More and more Americans and physicians have found acupuncture useful, especially for back and neck pain, osteoarthritis, knee pain, headaches, and migraines. Acupuncture also shows promise as a complementary therapy in cancer treatments – some doctors have used acupuncture to treat the pain, fatigue, nausea, and vomiting caused by chemotherapy. There are many ways acupuncture helps with chronic pain, which we will discuss in this article. Read on to learn more!
What Is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is a branch of traditional Chinese medicine that works by applying needles, heat, and pressure to specific points on the body. Natural energy, known as chi or qi, flows through meridians, or pathways, in your body. By inserting needles into specific points along these meridians, acupuncture practitioners believe your energy flow will release, redirect, and re-balance.
How Acupuncture Works for Chronic Pain
While the mechanisms behind acupuncture’s effectiveness in treating chronic pain are not fully understood, some evidence suggests it works by stimulating the nervous system to release natural painkillers (endorphins) and anti-inflammatory substances. Here are some ways in which acupuncture may help chronic pain:
Reduces Inflammation
Acupuncture has been shown to reduce inflammation, a contributing factor in chronic pain conditions such as arthritis and back pain.
Triggers the Release of Endorphins
Endorphins are natural painkillers produced by the body. Acupuncture stimulates the nervous system and triggers the release of endorphins, which can help to alleviate pain.
Regulates the Nervous System
Acupuncture can help to regulate the nervous system, which can be disrupted in chronic pain conditions. By restoring balance to the nervous system, acupuncture helps to reduce pain and improve overall health.
Increases Blood Flow
Acupuncture helps increase blood flow to ailing areas, promoting healing and reducing pain.
Stimulates the Body’s Natural Healing Response
Acupuncture helps stimulate the body’s natural healing response, which can help to reduce pain and improve overall health.
It’s important to note that acupuncture can be a helpful supplementary treatment for chronic pain but should not be used as a substitute for conventional medical care. If you are experiencing chronic pain, speak with your healthcare provider to determine if acupuncture can work with other treatments to alleviate your chronic pain.
Acupuncture Treatment with Pin Lu Acupuncture and Massage
Pin Lu Acupuncture and Massage is one of the top acupuncture clinics in San Diego. We provide acupuncture services that help you get the relief you seek for the ailments you are experiencing. Pin Lu and her team of practitioners specialize in various acupuncture, massage, and other Chinese medicinal practices tailored to each guest’s specific needs. Call us at (858) 261-8038 or click here to book your session.
