Acupuncture for Pain Relief: An Alternative Approach

Traditional Chinese Medicine teaches that the human body contains approximately two thousand acupuncture points, each associated with specific psychological and physical ailments. These points are key to relieving discomfort and restoring balance. 

If you’re considering trying it out, there are expert functional medicine doctors in and around Whittier who are trained in this ancient practice. They skillfully insert needles at strategic points, stimulating nerves. This stimulation can change how you perceive pain or even trigger the release of substances and hormones that help regulate your body’s natural healing processes. Read on and learn more about it!

Is acupuncture an effective method of pain relief?

The benefits of acupuncture are well-documented. Below, you’ll find a list of the primary situations where it’s most commonly used for pain relief.

Neuropathic pain

Neuropathic pain, stemming from nerve damage or dysfunction, can be challenging to manage. Yet, acupuncture is seen as a beneficial treatment for this kind of pain. It works by regulating pain signals in the nervous system, offering significant relief. For example, targeting specific acupuncture points such as ST36 (Zusanli) and GB34 (Yanglingquan) can help reduce numbness, improve muscle strength, and regulate blood pressure – all vital for enhancing nerve function and overall well-being.

Migraines

Acupuncture offers a highly effective alternative to medication for treating migraines, which typically involve throbbing pain in certain areas of the head. By stimulating specific acupuncture points like GB20 (Fengchi) and LI4 (Hegu), this treatment helps regulate blood flow and ease pain and tension. This can significantly reduce both the intensity and frequency of migraine attacks.

Lower back pain

Each year, more than 8% of people worldwide experience lower back pain, with many also experiencing discomfort in their upper back and neck. This makes back pain one of the most widespread medical issues. 

During an acupuncture session, neurotransmitters like endorphins are released which block the nerve cells that are responsible for processing pain signals. When these cells are blocked, the pain signals are unable to get through, which helps alleviate discomfort. 

Knee pain

Acupuncture is commonly turned to for knee pain, whether it stems from an injury or external elements like cold, dampness, or heat. By focusing on specific points around the knee, such as SP9 (Yinlingquan) and ST35 (Dubi), the treatment improves the flow of “qi,” decreases inflammation, and enhances blood circulation around the joints.

Shoulder pain

Whether you’re dealing with a severe injury, frozen shoulder, or chronic discomfort, acupuncture can be a valuable tool in managing your pain. When combined with massage therapy, it becomes even more effective. Acupuncture helps to reduce inflammation and increase blood flow to the affected area. This enhanced circulation delivers essential nutrients to the shoulder, aiding in the healing of damaged or torn tissue.

Tennis elbow

Lateral epicondylitis, commonly known as tennis elbow, involves inflammation of the tendons at the elbow. Managing it can be frustrating and disruptive to your daily life. The standard treatments usually include rest, medication, and physical therapy. However, research suggests that acupuncture could also be effective, either alongside these traditional treatments or as an alternative to them.

Since tennis elbow is often linked to “qi” stagnation, stimulating specific acupuncture points such as LI11 (Quchi) and LI10 (Shousanli) can help restore the flow of energy and blood to the affected areas. Acupuncture for tennis elbow can also tackle underlying imbalances that may contribute to the condition.

Looking for experienced functional medicine doctors in Whittier?

While acupuncture isn’t a universal remedy, it’s an extremely effective option for pain relief, particularly when combined with other treatments. It’s a viable alternative to traditional pain management strategies and can also address specific psychological conditions. Whether you’re just beginning your wellness journey or you’re already well into it, Oasis Healing Arts is here to offer top-notch care and a personalized plan tailored to your unique needs. Feel free to reach out to us, whether you’re in  Whittier or the surrounding area.