Hint: It Does!
While many individuals turn to acupuncture as an alternative therapy, the question remains: Does acupuncture actually help eliminate pain?
Arguably, acupuncture proves a better alternative to opioids. In recent years, opioid addiction and the dangers of overdosing on opioids has taken center stage. It’s become a growing problem. Thus, many individuals refuse to take them. Doctors are hesitant to prescribe them. They seek out other ways for pain management – like acupuncture.
And perhaps you’ve been curious. Maybe a friend suggested trying acupuncture. Or perhaps your massage therapist has recommended it. Yet, your research sent you spinning in circles.
Acupuncture is widely debated among healthcare professionals. However, many studies indicate its use in the pain management of various conditions, including arthritis, back pain, neck pain, and headaches.
So, how does acupuncture help manage pain? What does it entail?
Let’s take a closer look!
How Acupuncture Works
Acupuncture dates back to over 3000 years ago. It has roots in Traditional Chinese Medicine. In fact, the first writings on acupuncture are from 100 B.C. in China.
The Chinese theorized that by stimulating certain spots in the body, the balance of energy within the body would be restored.
However, Western medicine has suggested another way in which acupuncture relieves pain. Doctors and experts alike agree that the insertion of fine needles stimulates the nervous system. Your body sends a signal to your brain to release endorphins – your body’s natural pain relievers. It also impacts the part of your brain involved with serotonin. Serotonin is frequently referred to as the happy chemical due to its impact on one’s mood. The release of serotonin makes you feel good. This is why after an acupuncture treatment, you feel less pain and why you might feel a little happier after a session.
A 2012 study even proved that having acupuncture was better than not having acupuncture, specifically when it came to improving neck pain, back pain, osteoarthritis, shoulder pain, and headaches. Other studies have also suggested acupuncture as a viable option for chronic pain conditions.
Interestingly, in another study, researchers explored neck pain and acupuncture. The patients reported a 60% decrease in their pain levels. Back pain patients also showed significant improvements in their pain levels. Researchers stated, “When acupuncture is added to other conventional therapies, it relieves pain and improves function better than the conventional therapies alone.”
Doctors are further leaning toward non-drug remedies for pain relief. With the dangers of opioids in plain sight, acupuncture continues to rise in popularity. There are few side effects and almost zero long-term negative consequences. Complications are also rare.
Whereas opioids and other drugs pose various adverse effects with their use – especially in the long-term – acupuncture tends to come out on top. The importance lies in ensuring you’re receiving acupuncture treatment from a trained, qualified, and experienced professional. This limits any risk of infection or non-sterile needles and ensures you’re getting the proper treatment.
Going Into Your First Acupuncture Appointment
A typical acupuncture session lasts 30 minutes. Your acupuncturist inserts thin needles at set acupuncture points. These needles are inserted about 4-25 mm in depth. The needles are then left in for 30 minutes. Sometimes, it takes a few sessions to notice a difference.
Usually, acupuncture treatment is recommended over a set duration for a specific condition. Most conditions treated by our acupuncturists tend to last up to 3 cycles, with each cycle representing roughly 10 visits. During your session, you may feel a slight tingling in the area. You may even feel sleepy. If any severe pain or discomfort occurs, it’s important to let your acupuncturist know right away. After the set duration, your acupuncturist removes the needles and you can go about your day as normal.
For chronic pain conditions, specifically, there’s a ton of evidence indicating that acupuncture can help lower the pain threshold and reduce pain levels. Many people have found it has eliminated or reduced their pain to tolerable levels, allowing them to enjoy their lives – without pain holding them back.
Are you curious about acupuncture? At Tranquilo Wellness, we are experienced in various forms of acupuncture. We further take the time and care required to help you feel better. Contact us today.
Book your next appointment and discover a life where pain doesn’t get in your way.