Acupuncture for Chronic Pain Relief

Acupuncture can be very effective for chronic pain relief. It is believed to reduce pain by stimulating the release of neurotransmitters that block pain, called endorphins. According to Chinese medicine, there can be blockages in the body's flow of energy (Qi) that can lead to pain and illness. Acupuncture helps to move energy in the body to restore balance, eliminate pain and inflammation, improve mobility and increase circulation to speed up recovery. Acupuncture works well with other modalities such as chiropractic, physical therapy, massage, medications, self-care and nutritional supplements.

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) conducted an extensive review of the scientific evidence for acupuncture in 1997. According to the panel, there is clear evidence in support of acupuncture’s efficacy for chronic conditions that benefit from the control of pain and inflammation, enhanced circulation, endocrine and immune function and the reduction of stress. Some of the conditions that the panel found acupuncture to be incredibly useful were: headaches, low back pain, menstrual cramps, fibromyalgia, carpal tunnel syndrome, tennis elbow, TMJ, osteoarthritis and many more. Acupuncture can also be helpful for diabetic or chemotherapy related neuropathies, neck pain, plantar fasciitis, rheumatoid arthritis and hip pain.

For chronic pain sufferers it is important to receive regular care and to find the modalities that work best for you. It may take a combination of therapies to best manage your pain. Self -care is also very important.

• Make sure to get plenty of rest. Use extra pillows if necessary to get comfortable at night.

• Moderate gentle exercise can help tremendously to keep energy moving and to reduce pain. Try things like yoga, meditation and tai chi. It is more important to move your body, even if it is very gently in the beginning, than to get a “good work-out” or sweat.

• Speak your mind. Let people know how you feel.

• Eat whole foods. Try to avoid too much caffeine, sugar and processed foods. They can have a negative effect on your body and pain.

• Take a bath with epsom salts to relax muscles and tension while reading your favorite book.

• Slow down. Take time for yourself and listen to your body.