Physical pain is a common occurrence for many Americans; in fact, a national survey found that more than one-quarter of U.S. adults had recently experienced some sort of pain lasting more than a day. In addition to conventional treatments, such as over-the-counter and prescription medications, people head to acupuncture for pain. With countless testimonies of relieved pain in any area needed, it certainly seems to work.
This fact sheet provides basic information about pain and acupuncture, summarizes scientific research on acupuncture for specific kinds of pain, and suggests sources for additional information.
Use of Acupuncture for Pain
Pain is a feeling triggered in the nervous system. It may be sharp or dull, off-and-on or steady, localized (such as back pain) or all over (such as muscle aches from the flu). Sometimes, pain alerts us to injuries and illnesses that need attention. Although pain usually goes away once the underlying problem is addressed, it can last for weeks, months, or even years. Chronic pain may be due to an ongoing condition (such as arthritis) or to abnormal activity in pain-sensing regions of the brain. (And sometimes, we’re simply unable to find the source of the pain at all.)
Acupuncture, among the oldest healing practices in the world, is part of traditional Chinese medicine. Acupuncture practitioners stimulate specific points on the body, most often by inserting thin needles through the skin. In traditional Chinese medicine theory, this regulates the flow of qi (vital energy) along pathways known as meridians.
According to the 2007 National Health Interview Survey, an estimated 3.1 million Americans said they had used acupuncture in the past year. An analysis of acupuncture data found that pain or musculoskeletal complaints accounted for 7 of the top 10 conditions for which people use acupuncture. Back pain was the most common, followed by joint pain, neck pain, severe headache/migraine, and chronic recurring pain. In other words, people are definitely using acupuncture for pain.
The Entire Holistic Picture for Your Body
We believe in holistic health and healing as we realize that different parts of the human body are highly interlinked. We also believe that the body has the ability to heal itself of any disease, even supposedly incurable diseases. Acupuncture is a perfect partner in holistic health aims as acupuncture treats problems by examining the entire human body and its relation to the environment in an attempt to eliminate the CAUSE and not just the SYMPTOMS.
In order to do so, the body also needs the support of some basic dietary and lifestyle good health habits, such as a full body detox and a proper understanding and application of nutrition. Taking these fundamental health steps will greatly magnify the effects and benefits of any of our health-promoting efforts, including the use of certain holistic remedies like acupuncture.
Why Acupuncture is so effective.
- Acupuncture is a non-invasive treatment. No surgeries required!
- Almost all patients or people in discomfort can undergo acupuncture treatment.
- Acupuncture provides relief from both physical and mental problems.
- Acupuncture is one of the most natural forms of alternative medicine during which endorphins are released into the blood stream in order to achieve maximum pain relief. Endorphins are the human body’s natural pain-control mechanism employed by the central nervous system. Therefore acupuncture works at reducing pain naturally, which is much better in comparison to pain medication.
- During acupuncture, the nerves in the spinal cord are stimulated, which in turn facilitate release of certain pain-reduction neurotransmitters. Again, this is the human body’s natural and drug-free pain relief mechanism.
- Acupuncture is responsible for increase blood flow due to the insertion of needles, thereby resulting in increased supply of essential nutrients to the affected area. This also helps remove toxins and facilitate healing.
Do you or someone you know have pain?
Have you you been told you need surgery or drugs for the pain?
Acupuncture is not only the safest but the most effective form of treatment for your pain.
Please forward this email to someone know who suffers from pain. Thank you.
