What Is Acupuncture and How Does It Relieve Pain?
Acupuncture is a key component of traditional Chinese medicine that’s been practiced for thousands of years. It works by stimulating specific points on the body, most often by inserting thin needles through the skin. According to Chinese philosophy, our life force or energy, known as “qi”, flows through the body along meridian pathways. When qi becomes unbalanced or blocked, it can lead to physical, mental, and emotional health issues. Acupuncture aims to release blocked qi, stimulate healing and promote pain relief.
How Acupuncture Affects the Body
Acupuncture stimulates the central nervous system, signaling the body to release natural painkillers and immune system cells. This stimulates healing and promotes physical and emotional well-being. Studies show acupuncture may:
- Stimulate the release of pain-relieving endorphins
- Influence the autonomic nervous system
- Stimulate circulation
- Influence the release of neurotransmitters
- Activate the body’s self-healing mechanisms
What to Expect During an Acupuncture Session
During an acupuncture treatment, I insert very thin needles into specific spots on your body. Each person who performs acupuncture has a unique style, often blending aspects of Eastern and Western approaches to medicine. I may also use infrared heated lamps and gentle impulses with changing frequencies of electrical stimulation. A typical session lasts 30-60 minutes and several sessions are needed for the best results.
Painful Conditions Acupuncture Can Help Treat
Back & Neck Pain
-With or without pain in the limb
Acute Musculoskeletal Pain
-Soft-tissue contusions
-Acute Muscle spasms
-Musculotendinous strains and sprains
-Acute nerve entrapments
Repetitive Strain Disorders
-Carpal tunnel syndrome
-Tennis & Golfer’s Elbow
-Plantar fasciitis
Myofascial Pain Patterns
-TMJ
-Muscle tension headaches
-Trigger points
-Neck & upper back soft tissue pain
-Lumbosacral back soft tissue pain
Joint Pain
-Osteoarthritis wear and tear in nature
-Shoulder, hip, knee and ankle joint pain
Questions to Ask Before Your First Appointment
Before you book an appointment, it’s important to discuss the following:
How many treatments will I need?
What are the costs, and does insurance cover it?
What should I expect during my visit?
Are there any risks or side effects?
Don't be afraid to ask questions. Your health is worth it!
Safety Measures Practitioners Take
I follow FDA protocol which regulates acupuncture needles as medical devices and requires that they be sterile, nontoxic, and labeled for single use.
To minimize risks, I:
- Use sterile, single-use, disposable needles
- Follow strict protocols for needle depth and placement
- Have thorough knowledge of human anatomy & partake in continuing medical education all year round.
Incorporating Acupuncture into Your Health and Wellness Plan
Acupuncture isn’t just a standalone treatment. It can be a powerful addition to your overall health and wellness strategy.
Complementing Conventional Medical Treatments
Acupuncture can be used alongside conventional treatments for a wide range of conditions. It may help:
- Reduce medication side effects
- Enhance the effectiveness of other therapies
- Provide an alternative for those who can’t tolerate certain medications
- Offer a drug-free option for pain management
Many people use acupuncture as a complementary therapy to manage chronic pain, migraines, nausea, and other symptoms. The number of treatments needed depends on the condition and its severity. Most people receive 6-12 sessions, often weekly. Acute conditions may improve after just a few sessions, while chronic conditions may require ongoing treatments for lasting results. Together I develop a personalized treatment plan based on my patients’ unique needs and goals.
Acupuncture works best as part of a holistic approach to health that addresses both physical and emotional well-being. As with any complementary therapy, it’s advisable to use acupuncture alongside conventional treatments, especially for chronic or severe conditions. But with its proven benefits, low risk of side effects, and ability to target multiple health concerns simultaneously, acupuncture can be a valuable addition to your self-care toolkit. Acupuncture is a powerful tool for promoting balance, healing, and overall wellness in your life. By tapping into your body’s natural ability to heal itself, acupuncture can help you find relief from a wide range of physical and emotional ailments.
Whether you’re dealing with chronic pain, digestive issues, or just feeling stressed and overwhelmed, acupuncture may be the natural solution you’ve been looking for.
Think of acupuncture as a path you’re walking on, not a quick jump to the finish line. Hang in there through a few meetings; you’ll start noticing changes. Come see me at Tru Whole Care. Schedule your appointment today!
