Acupuncture is one of the oldest and most popular forms of alternative medicine in the world. It is an ancient form of naturopathy that involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to achieve certain desired effects. This Traditional Chinese Medicine technique has been used for centuries to treat pain, boost the immune system, and improve overall health. Below, we will discuss 5 benefits of acupuncture that go beyond pain relief. Moreover, we’ll recommend an expert Acupuncturist in La Jolla.
How Does Acupuncture Work?
Acupuncture is based on the principle that there are energy pathways or meridians in the body through which our life force or Qi flows. When these pathways become blocked, it can lead to pain and illness. Acupuncture works by stimulating specific points along these energy pathways, which can help to unblock the flow of Qi and restore balance to the body.
Acupuncture Benefits
1. A drug-free way to manage pain
Acupuncture is an extremely effective way to manage pain without the use of drugs or surgery. It works by stimulating the nervous system and releasing endorphins, which are the body’s natural painkillers. These hormones are produced by the pituitary gland and the hypothalamus. They act on the nervous system to reduce pain signals. Acupuncture can be used to relieve pain from various conditions such as headaches and migraines, back pain, and joint pain resulting from injuries or arthritis. One of the main advantages of this alternative pain relief treatment is that it considerably lessens the need for addictive opioids.
Studies have shown the benefits acupuncture can offer for people with numerous health conditions. An article reviewing results from various studies about acupuncture, published on the Journal of Acupuncture and Meridian Studies, suggests that “clear evidence for the effectiveness of acupuncture for treating pain conditions has been obtained by hard data through high-quality source types such as RCT’s, and individual patient data meta-analysis. These trials demonstrate that acupuncture is a credible treatment option for a wide variety of conditions.” Additionally, a 2017 patient data meta-analysis published in the Journal of Pain on behalf of the Acupuncture Trialists’ Collaboration concluded that “acupuncture is effective for the treatment of chronic pain, that the effects of acupuncture persists over time, and that the benefits of acupuncture cannot be explained away solely by the placebo effect.”
In 2017, the Journal of Pain updated their previous meta-analysis with additional patient data collected from eligible randomized controlled trials (RCTs) between 2008 and 2015. The meta-analysis incorporated data from 20,827 patients in over 39 trials. It concluded that acupuncture is effective for many chronic pain conditions and the benefits persist for 12 months after receiving treatment. Each trial contained a control group ensuring that the benefits were not a result of the placebo effect.
2. Improves your mood and overall sense of well-being
Acupuncture can also improve your mood and sense of well-being through its ability to regulate neurotransmitters and hormones, such as serotonin, a brain hormone, which is responsible for our mood and feelings of happiness. Acupuncture can also help to relieve stress and anxiety, improve sleep quality, and increase energy levels. It can even be helpful in treating depression, OCD, and other mental disorders. [INCLUDE CITATION FOR THESE CLAIMS]
3. Boosts your immune system
Another great benefit of acupuncture is that it can help to strengthen the immune system. Traditional Chinese Medicine suggests that inserting the needles at specific locations and depths can strengthen the human body to make it more resistant to diseases. Modern studies have proven that theory. This is extremely beneficial, especially in our current day and age where it seems like we are constantly bombarded with new viruses and bacteria. Acupuncture does this by stimulating the production of white blood cells and antibodies, which are the body’s main defense against infection.
During the current health crisis caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, studies are being carried out to find alternative treatments for this virus. COVID-19 may cause what’s known as a “cytokine storm” that causes inflammation that could kill tissue and damage organs. A study from Harvard University in 2020 found acupuncture reduced the impact of cytokine storms in mice. Another study from Oxford University found acupuncture treatment for COVID-19 suppressed the inflammation caused by stress, improved immunity, regulated nervous system functions, and helped cancer patients with COVID-19.
4. Minimizes fine lines and wrinkles
Acupuncture can also have cosmetic benefits. It can help to smooth out fine lines and wrinkles, improve skin elasticity, and give the face a general lift. This technique works by stimulating collagen production and increasing blood circulation to the face. It can also help to reduce inflammation, which can lead to a reduction in puffiness under the eyes. Acupuncture is a great alternative to more invasive cosmetic procedures such as Botox or surgery.
5. A safe, complementary treatment
Unlike other alternative medical treatments, acupuncture is non-invasive and drug-free, making it safe to combine with complementary remedies to achieve optimal results. This flexible therapy treats various health conditions (such as chronic pain, migraines, and headaches) and aids in pain management, cosmetic procedures, and mood disorders. And better yet, because of its minimal risk of side effects, acupuncture is an ideal option for health conditions that have not improved after receiving more traditional treatments.
Book An Acupuncture Session Now! Acupuncturist in La Jolla
If you are looking for an effective and natural way to manage pain, boost your immune system, improve your mood or sleep, or feel better overall, acupuncture may be the perfect solution for you. Create Wellness offers Acupuncture in La Jolla to help you achieve your health goals under the care of our expert providers. Contact us today to schedule a consultation! Call (858) 202-0322 or request an appointment on our website!
