Posted on April 5th, 2023

Are you living with chronic pain and searching for a natural and effective solution? Acupuncture may be the answer you have been looking for. At Aviva Acupuncture, we specialize in treating a variety of pain conditions and have helped many patients find relief through this ancient practice. In this blog post, we will explore the science behind acupuncture for pain and how it can help you.

Understanding Pain

Before diving into acupuncture, it is important to understand the pain and what causes it. Pain is a complex experience that can be caused by a variety of factors, including injury, inflammation, and neurological imbalances. Chronic pain is defined as pain that lasts for more than three months and affects millions of people worldwide.

Chronic pain can have a profound impact on a person's quality of life, affecting their ability to work, socialize, and enjoy daily activities. While there are many conventional treatment options available for pain, including medication and surgery, these treatments may come with unwanted side effects and may not be effective for everyone.

How Acupuncture Works for Pain

Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese medicine practice that involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body. This practice has been used for thousands of years to treat a variety of conditions, including pain.

Acupuncture for pain works by regulating the flow of Qi (pronounced "chee") or vital energy in the body. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), when Qi is blocked or stagnant, it can lead to a variety of health issues, including pain. By inserting needles into specific acupuncture points, the flow of Qi is restored, and the body is able to heal itself.

In addition to regulating Qi, acupuncture also helps to reduce inflammation and promote relaxation. Inflammation is a common cause of pain and can be reduced through acupuncture. By promoting relaxation, acupuncture can also help reduce stress levels, which can exacerbate pain.

The Science Behind Acupuncture for Pain

While acupuncture has been used for centuries to treat pain, modern science is beginning to catch up. A growing body of research has shown that acupuncture can be an effective treatment for a variety of pain conditions.

One study published in the Journal of Pain found that acupuncture can be an effective treatment for chronic pain conditions such as osteoarthritis, back pain, and headaches. The study compared acupuncture to sham acupuncture (inserting needles at non-acupuncture points) and found that acupuncture was significantly more effective at reducing pain.

Another study published in the journal Brain found that acupuncture can help to reduce inflammation in the body. Inflammation is a common cause of pain, and by reducing inflammation, acupuncture can help to relieve pain symptoms.

What to Expect During an Acupuncture Session

If you are interested in trying acupuncture for pain, you may be wondering what to expect during a session. At Aviva Acupuncture, we begin with a thorough consultation to discuss your pain concerns and health history. From there, we will create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs.

During a session, you will lie comfortably on a treatment table while our acupuncturist inserts thin needles into specific points on your body. The needles are left in place for 20-30 minutes while you relax. Many people find acupuncture to be a relaxing and calming experience.

Other Natural Treatments for Pain

In addition to acupuncture, there are many other natural treatments that can help relieve pain. These include:

Massage Therapy

Massage therapy is a natural and effective treatment for pain that can help to reduce tension, promote relaxation, and relieve pain symptoms. Massage therapy works by manipulating the soft tissues of the body, including muscles, tendons, and ligaments, to improve circulation and relieve tension.

Studies have shown that massage therapy can be an effective treatment for a variety of pain conditions, including back pain, neck pain, and headaches. Massage therapy has also been shown to help relieve symptoms of conditions such as fibromyalgia and osteoarthritis.

At Aviva Acupuncture, we offer a variety of massage therapy techniques, including Swedish massage, deep tissue massage, and trigger point therapy. Our experienced massage therapists will work with you to create a personalized treatment plan to help you find relief from pain.

Exercise

Regular exercise is an important part of a healthy lifestyle and can help to improve overall health and reduce pain symptoms. Exercise helps to strengthen muscles, improve flexibility, and reduce stress levels, all of which can help to relieve pain symptoms.

Low-impact activities such as yoga and swimming may be particularly beneficial for those with chronic pain. These activities help to improve flexibility and promote relaxation, which can help to relieve pain symptoms. Other low-impact activities such as walking and cycling may also be beneficial for those with chronic pain.

It is important to start slowly and gradually increase the intensity of your exercise routine when managing pain. It is also important to consult with a qualified practitioner before starting any new exercise program.

Herbs and Supplements

Certain herbs and supplements can help to relieve pain symptoms, but it is important to consult with a qualified practitioner before taking any new supplements. Some herbs and supplements may interfere with prescription medications or have unwanted side effects.

Herbs such as turmeric, ginger, and devil's claw have been traditionally used to relieve pain symptoms. These herbs have anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce pain and inflammation. Supplements such as omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin D may also be beneficial for pain management.

Before taking any herbs or supplements, it is important to consult with a qualified practitioner to determine the appropriate dosage and potential interactions with prescription medications. Our experienced acupuncturist at Aviva Acupuncture can help guide you through the process of incorporating herbs and supplements into your pain management plan.

The Importance of Finding a Qualified Practitioner

When seeking acupuncture or any other natural treatment for pain, it is important to find a qualified practitioner who has experience treating pain conditions. Acupuncture should always be performed by a licensed acupuncturist who has completed the necessary training and certification.

At Aviva Acupuncture, our experienced acupuncturist is trained in both Western and Eastern medicine and has extensive experience treating pain conditions. We take a holistic approach to pain management, incorporating acupuncture, cupping, moxa, and other natural treatments to help relieve pain symptoms and improve overall well-being.

Conclusion

Acupuncture is a safe, natural, and effective treatment for a variety of pain conditions. By regulating the flow of Qi, reducing inflammation, and promoting relaxation, acupuncture can help to relieve pain symptoms and improve overall well-being. If you are living with chronic pain and want to explore natural treatment options, we invite you to reach out to us at (808) 797-8721 or email us at [email protected] to schedule a consultation. Our experienced acupuncturist will work with you to create a personalized treatment plan to help you find relief from pain.