Acupuncture for Pain Management
Are you always twisting, turning and stretching? Back and neck pain can be some of the most inconvenient types of pain. Posture, strenuous activity, and physical injuries may often lead to discomfort. Did you know that many are turning to acupuncture for pain management? If it is something you have considered but wanted more details on, you have come to the right place. Our team of acupuncturists are here to break down questions often asked from people just like you at AcuMantras. Let’s dive in!
Q: How does acupuncture play a role in pain management treatment?
A: Acupuncture is traditional Chinese medicine. Traditional Chinese medicine explains that health is the result of a harmonious balance of the complementary extremes of “yin” and “yang”of the life force known as “Qi”. Illness is then said to be the consequence of an imbalance of the forces. By inserting tiny, thin needles at various points, we are able to control its flow. Good flow keeps the body from getting sick rather than treating it after illness sets in. This includes conditions that cause pain as well.
Q: Is acupuncture an effective pain management therapy?
A: It can be. Many have felt relief when turning to acupuncture for pain. In the Western approach, acupuncture has more of a scientific explanation tied to it. In Eastern medicine, the needles relieve pain by releasing endorphins, the body's natural pain-killing chemicals. They also affect the part of the brain that governs serotonin, a brain chemical involved with mood. These chemicals include endorphins that make people happy and relieve pain. No matter the approach, many acupuncture patients feel a difference.
Q: How does acupuncture for neck pain work?
A: As we mentioned, in the traditional approach, the flow of Qi controls how one feels. Different needle points will trigger different responses among the bones and muscles in the neck. An acupuncturist will target specific points depending on the pain experienced. Make sure to discuss any and all issues during the consultation. This will help ensure an accurate plan of treatment. People with balanced qi can quickly fight off a virus, for example, or bounce back after an injury. They typically have good endurance, digestion, and immunity, as well as a clear state of mind.
Q: How does an acupuncturist target those spots for neck pain relief?
A: Glad you asked! Acupuncture points are seen as places where nerves, muscles, and connective tissue can be stimulated. The stimulation increases blood flow, while at the same time triggering the activity of the body’s natural painkillers.
For the neck, targeted points often include the shoulders. Loosening stiff shoulders can relieve headaches as well. Another point is the webbing between the thumb and index finger. Behind earlobes and pinky knuckles are often targeted as well. Half way between your neck is also a key area. Some do believe it can induce labor, so it is not recommended for those who are pregnant.
Q: Is acupuncture a neck pain solution you recommend?
A: As with everything, everyone reacts differently. But overall yes! In most cases, our AcuMantras patients report relief following the sessions. Inflammation and strains can cause stiffness and other uncomfortable pain. But what causes it? Often, it is sitting for long periods of time without changing positions. It can also be sleeping in a straining position or quick, sudden movements. Acupuncture, as we mentioned, can be a pain relieving remedy.
Q: Do you recommend acupuncture for back pain too?
A: Yes! Many of our patients experience both back and neck pain. Acupuncture works in similar ways for treating back pain as it does for the neck. An experienced practitioner of Eastern medicine and acupuncture can discuss a specific treatment plan to help relieve both.
Q: How does acupuncture work for lower back pain relief specifically?
A: As mentioned, your experienced acupuncturist will create a treatment plan that targets points on the body. For back pain, these surprisingly can include points that target internal organs like the intestines and bladder. Often, when these have issues, they can cause a strain on the back.
Q: Do you target points when using acupuncture for lower back pain too?
A: Like with the neck, there are certain points on the body to target for back pain relief. These include points between the hip and waist. An acupuncturist can also target the back of the knee, various points on the hands and stomach. Points on the foot include toes and between the achilles and ankle.
Q: What is chronic pain?
A: Often, neck and back pain is temporary. It can, however, be a sign of serious conditions. This could be a virus, fibromyalgia, osteoporosis or arthritis. Sometimes chronic pain can be severe, causing vomiting, weakness or numbness. If a massage, hot shower or improving posture, does not work, consider seeking alternative methods like acupuncture.
Q: Can acupuncture help with chronic back pain?
A: Long-term pain can be excruciating. It can strike at any time and stay for long, uncertain periods. Be sure to discuss it with your acupuncture physician who can create a treatment plan for you. If the pain persists, they are also qualified to diagnose and refer you to additional treatment if need be. However, within a few sessions, most start feeling a difference. These sessions could be covered by insurance, but not always. If they are not, consider a cost effective format like community acupuncture.
Q: Does community acupuncture work for back pain?
A: Absolutely! Community acupuncture is a format that keeps costs in mind. Opposed to a private session, the setup includes multiple people in one room receiving treatment at the same time. Class attendees are still tended to with quality, respectful care. Be sure to book a session here or call us at (954) 408-8224 to find out more. We also have additional details on our blog. Be sure to check it out. We are also maintaining COVID-19 safety protocols, given that we are in a community setting. If you want to check out how we are maintaining the safety of our community, feel free to read our COVID-19 guidelines.
Q: Do you have any suggestions for turning to acupuncture for chronic pain?
Talking to a doctor and being honest about your pain is a must. When deciding to turn to acupuncture, make sure to seek a licensed professional. Ensure they have the experience. Have they treated someone with similar pain? Do not be afraid to ask questions. Check out the facility. Is it clean? This will reduce the risk of infection and you will relax knowing you are safe.
Q: What causes back and neck pain?
A: Lifestyle is a big factor. Overworking muscles or a lack of exercising are common causes. If you are going to be active, be sure to stretch properly. This is a must before and after to avoid strains. We see a lot of athletes with overworked muscles, too. It is simple and can save you unnecessary pain.
Q: Do you have suggestions on how to deal with chronic pain?
A: Acupuncture is not a cure, but does serve as a relief. If you are looking for a more natural option, acupuncture is a drug-free treatment with proven results. Acupuncture studies showed that it provides a short-term relief from chronic back pain. That is why it's important to maintain a treatment plan that has been designed by your acupuncture physician. Be sure to find a reputable, licensed acupuncture practitioner to ensure best results.
That was a quick rundown of how acupuncture can relieve neck and back pain. We’re sure you have more questions. Our AcuMantras team is here to answer them. Call us today at (954) 408-8224 or you can follow us on Instagram or Facebook. Stop by our website to learn more about our team, classes and services offered. Our studio is located in Plantation, conveniently serving all of South Florida.