The Science Behind Acupuncture: How Needles Relieve Chronic Pain

Taking A Holistic Approach To Pain

A cupuncture is a holistic practice that has been part of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) for over 2,000 years. Holistic medicine is a medical approach that integrates care for the mind, body, and spirit. Traditional Chinese medicine is a healthcare system that aligns with holistic ideology. TCM focuses on the Qi, pronounced chee, which is the flow of energy within the body. TCM utilizes herbs, diet, massages, acupuncture, meditation and other practices to restore the body’s Qi to optimal levels.

Dealing with chronic pain

Doctors define chronic pain as discomfort that lasts for 3 months or longer. This pain can affect any part of the body that interferes with everyday activities. Oftentimes, people with chronic pain report feeling anxious, depressed, and hopeless along with issues performing basic activities. Arthritis, migraines, neuropathic pain, and fibromyalgia are just some of the medical conditions caused by chronic pain. Many of these conditions do not have cures and doctors must create comprehensive treatment plans to help patients manage these diseases.

The process of acupuncture

Before an acupuncturist works with a patient, an examination is done to evaluate the person’s health issues, pain points, and pulse rate. Acupuncture is interesting because each acupuncturist can have a one-of-a-kind style. Prior to treatment, the practitioner identifies acupoints which are areas that will receive needle insertions. Then, thin needles are inserted at the acupoints. A single treatment can require up to 20 needles and needles stay in place for about 10-20 minutes. While inserted, the practitioner cautiously adjusts the needle, adding heat or an electric pulse if needed. The sessions last for an hour or less and most patients need multiple sessions to see results.

The pathway to pain relief

Acupuncturists believe that this ancient practice stimulates the central nervous and immune systems to produce endorphins and neurotransmitters that relieve pain. The body naturally emits endorphins when in distress, so acupuncture helps to trigger that response to manage pain symptoms. Acupuncture calms the body down and has been shown to reduce chronic pain in patients dealing with arthritis, fibromyalgia, and migraines.

Is acupuncture backed by science?

For years, researchers have studied acupuncture to gain a better understanding of this ancient practice. A study conducted by one group found that acupuncture works with neurons to create anti-inflammatory properties. The study also found that electroacupuncture, a practice that involves adding an electrical charge to the needles, decreases the amount of cytokines in the body. Cytokines are proteins that regulate inflammation. A cytokine storm occurs when the body rapidly produces an excessive number of cytokines which leads to severe inflammation and autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis.

Should I try acupuncture?

Many modern-day acupuncturists combine practices from western medicine and TCM to create the right treatment plan for patients. People interested in acupuncture should speak to a doctor before trying this treatment. The doctor can give the patient more information about holistic medicine and provide referrals to trained specialists.