What is Acupuncture Therapy? How can acupuncture help in relieving pain?

Defining acupuncture.

Acupuncture is a TCM (traditional Chinese medicine) practice that originated thousands of years ago. It works on the premise that disturbance or stoppage in the flow of life energy of the body, referred to as ‘qi,’ can cause health issues.

Professional acupuncturists insert hair-thin needles to the specific part of acupuncture points throughout your body to restore the flow of qi, stimulate healing, body energy, and promote relaxation. 

As per the TCM theory, there are more than 1000 acupuncture points on our body, each residing on an invisible energy channel or meridian, as it is called. The Association of each meridian is with a different organ system.

How does acupuncture work?

Researchers do not have any concrete idea of how acupuncture works, but there are various theories. One of such theories is that acupuncture works by stimulating the release of endorphins. Endorphin is the natural pain-relieving chemical of the body.

Getting acupuncture therapy in Calgary can influence the autonomic nervous system that controls bodily functions and releases chemicals that regulate blood pressure and flow, minimalizes inflammation, and calms the brain.

What conditions can be treated with acupuncture?

Acupuncture is beneficial in treating conditions ranging from musculoskeletal problems like neck pain, back pain, etc., to nausea, anxiety, migraine headaches, insomnia, depression, and infertility.

How does one feel while receiving the acupuncture treatment?

Acupuncture is carried out using hair-thin needles. Many people feel slight pain while needles are being inserted. Needles produce the sensation of ache or pressure on a specific point of the body. Heat or mild electric current might be applied to the needles. Many people feel energized after the acupuncture, while others feel relaxed.

If one places needles improperly on the body, then it can cause pain. Acupuncturists will have to sterilize needles to prevent infection. Therefore, you should receive acupuncture treatment from qualified acupuncturists. Some acupuncturists use other forms of stimulation instead of needles like acupressure, moxibustion, suction, friction, and impulse of electromagnetic energy.

Here are some of the benefits of acupuncture that can help you relieve the pain you are going through.

Stress reducer.

It is one of the primary reasons people seek acupuncture treatment as it reduces the stress level. The key factor in lowering the body’s stress reaction is restoring energy balance and triggering nervous system responses. As per the research of Healthline, acupuncture helps in lowering the stress hormone levels and improves mood by reducing anxiety.

Reducing back and joint pain.

Acupuncture provides pain relief instantly. Acupuncture can minimize tension in your neck and back muscles and alleviates joint pain. It does not involve any medication. Acupuncture can also reduce inflammation in the affected areas.

Headache and migraine relief.

Patients who are suffering from chronic headaches and migraines and do not want to take any medication can find relief by receiving acupuncture treatments. Many studies have found that acupuncture effectively alleviates the severity and frequency of headaches among chronic sufferers. It is more effective than pain-reducing medications to treat tension headaches.

Improves eyesight and health.

Eye strain is a common complaint in today’s world as most of us rely heavily on computers and mobile screens. Acupuncture can reduce eye strain and improve vision for people who have been dealing with lazy eyes and night blindness.

Sharp mental clarity.

When stress and other problems can lead to brain fog which makes thinking difficult for a person, with the help of acupuncture treatment, one can enhance mental clarity and reduce the chances of brain fog in the future.

Fewer chances of neurological disorders.

Neurological disorders like Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s disease can impact the life of patients severely. Acupuncture can help in treating such conditions. As per the clinical studies, acupuncture treatment helps in improving the language and motor function of patients with such neurological diseases.

Less risk of falling ill.

Patients who frequently receive acupuncture treatment will have fewer chances of getting sick as the treatment boosts the natural immune system response. The body will be able to fight it off diligently when a bacterium or virus enters the body. 

Enhanced energy.

After receiving the acupuncture treatment, patients might feel a surge in their energy levels. This can help people feel more relaxed and productive at their work and home.

Better sleep.

When your body energy is in balance, and the nervous system is responsive, many people have better abilities to fall asleep quickly. Acupuncture can benefit those people who are struggling with insomnia without any medication.

When you receive acupuncture treatment from a qualified acupuncturist, it will give you numerous benefits without any medication and side effects. Schedule an appointment at the Vista Physiotherapy And Massage in Calgary and get started with the acupuncture treatment.