Can Acupuncture Treat Chronic Pain?
Chinese medicine uses a different way of looking at the body than western medicine. In Chinese medicine, the body has a natural flow of good energy and whenever pain arises it is due to a block in the energy flow.
Where the pain stems from is indicative to where the blockage is and allows your acupuncturist to focus on the correct pressure points.
How Does It Work?
After identifying the areas that are causing you pain, your acupuncturist will insert tiny little needles into the surrounding pressure points. When these needles are inserted, your body will release natural endorphins, which is your body’s natural painkiller.
These endorphins flood your brain, spine and muscles and work to change how your body is responding to pain.
Acupuncture also increases blood flow which helps to improve nerve damage.
What Other Types of Pain Will Acupuncture Help?
The National Institute of Health (NIH) has conducted a variety of studies that show acupuncture is successful in helping reduce various types of chronic pain:
- Back Pain
- Neck Pain
- Osteoarthritis
- Knee Pain
- Headaches
Using acupuncture to treat pain has been a recognized pain management system by the NIH since the late 1990’s. It has grown in popularity and has become a great source of alternative treatment for those not looking to take medications.
How to Find a Certified Acupuncturist
There are several key indicators to look for when choosing an acupuncturist to help you with pain management.
Look for a certified practitioner. Some acupuncturists will have several certifications, however, they should at least be certified by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM).
Two other certifications to look for are: Diplomate in Oriental Medicine from NCCAOM, and Clean Needle Technique from Council of Colleges of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine.
