Acupuncture is a form of complementary/alternative therapy that is derived from ancient Chinese medicine. During acupuncture, ultra-fine needles are inserted into specific, strategic points of the body. They are then left for a period of time – anywhere from a few minutes to an hour.
It is believed that these needles will stimulate sensory nerves under the skin and in the muscles, triggering the production of certain chemicals, including natural pain-relieving endorphins. These have a therapeutic effect that forms the basis of the many benefits associated with the acupuncture technique.
Some people also believe that the insertion of the needles alters the flow of energy around the body, directing it to the areas where it is most needed, such as an area of trauma that needs to heal. They also believe that this energy needs to be able to flow freely through the body to maximize our overall health and wellbeing.
Interested to learn more and discover if acupuncture could be the right treatment for you? Here’s what you need to know about the top benefits associated with acupuncture.
Acupuncture Can Treat Ailments
One of the biggest benefits of acupuncture is that it is an extremely versatile treatment. In fact, it has long been used to treat a wide range of different health problems, including but not limited to:
- Chronic headaches
- Migraines
- Back pain
- Muscle pain
- Joint stiffness and pain
- Sports injuries
- Trauma injuries
- Neurological conditions such as multiple sclerosis
- Stress
- Insomnia
- Poor immunity
- Mental health conditions including anxiety and depression
If you aren’t sure if acupuncture could benefit you, your practitioner would be happy to listen to your symptoms and make a recommendation.
Acupuncture Is Safe
The needles used in acupuncture should all be single-use, pre-sterilized needles that are disposed of immediately after they have been used. There are also little, if any, side effects associated with the treatment.
Treatment Plans Are Bespoke
Most patients find that they receive far greater benefit from a course of treatments than from a single session, and your acupuncture practitioner will be happy to create a bespoke treatment plan for you, based on your individual requirements. It’s important to be aware that this may change depending on how well your body responds to the initial treatments.
No Pain
While a very small percentage of people may experience a slight tingling or dull ache at the point where the needles are inserted, most people find the technique to be painless. Even if you do experience some sensations, these should ease very quickly and easily.
Reduce Pain Without Medication
Whether you are experiencing short-term discomfort or living with chronic pain, there’s a good chance that you are reluctant to take any pain relief. Although it can help to mask the discomfort that you are experiencing, it is short-lived and doesn’t deal with the root cause of your pain. Some people, especially athletes, are also particularly concerned with the potentially addictive qualities of pain-relieving medication. Fortunately, acupuncture is a great method of natural pain relief and can reduce and even eliminate the need for prescription painkillers.
For more information about the benefits of acupuncture, visit Auburn Hills Chiropractic and Rehabilitation in Wichita, Kansas. Call (316) 721-2220 to schedule an appointment today.