Acupuncture is a form of traditional Chinese medicine that has been around for thousands of years. In the United States, this method of pain management and wellness first received FDA approval in 1996.
Since that time, acupuncture has gone from an alternative therapy to a widely used one. Although still referred to as complementary or alternative, a recent study found that 3.5 million Americans had received acupuncture in the past year.
What is acupuncture?
During an acupuncture treatment, one of the trained Chinese medicine specialists at PANDA Neurology inserts thin needles into areas on your body called “acupoints.” In addition to inserting the needles, the specialist may twist or twirl the needles slightly or apply heat or electrical stimulation to instigate the healing properties.
This treatment has been performed for centuries throughout Asia to manage pain and treat various health issues. After the needles have been inserted, you’re asked to lie on the table for about 10-20 minutes. Most people find acupuncture relaxing and may even catch a short nap on the table. In most cases, more than one session is needed for maximum or ongoing pain relief and wellness.
How does acupuncture work?
Chinese cultures believe that disease and pain are caused by energy imbalances, or disruptions in the flow of energy called qi, throughout the body. Acupuncture releases and unblocks qi so that it can then travel freely in the body to where it needs to go to promote wellness.
Others believe that acupuncture works to relieve pain by causing the release of endorphins and serotonin, naturally produced feel-good, pain-killing chemicals. Others believe that the needles stimulate nerves and release tension to reduce pain and improve overall wellness. The practice has few side effects or risks.
What types of pain can acupuncture treat?
Studies have shown acupuncture to be an effective treatment for chronic pain. Furthermore, it’s gained more prominence and attention in recent years as doctors look for alternatives to opioids as overdoses and rates of addiction have climbed over the years.
Acupuncture is a drug-free pain-relief method that’s used to treat a variety of health issues and types of pain. Some of them include:
- Chronic pain
- Menstrual cramps
- Arthritis
- Headaches
- Shoulder pain
- Back pain
- Neck pain
- Stress
Acupuncture can also help cancer patients with pain and nausea. If you’re experiencing pain and want relief, contact PANDA Neurology & Atlanta Headache Specialists today or book an appointment online for an acupuncture consultation.