Acupuncture and Chinese Herbal Medicine for Pain Relief
How Does Acupuncture Relieve Pain?
Acupuncture involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to alleviate pain and promote overall well-being. But how exactly does this ancient practice work?
While the exact mechanisms are still being explored, science is starting to shed light on acupuncture's effectiveness for pain relief. Here are some of the theories:
Traditional Beliefs
Traditionally, acupuncture is based on the concept of "qi" (pronounced "chee") - a vital energy that flows along meridians throughout the body. Needles are used to stimulate these points, regulating the flow of qi and restoring balance.
Modern Science's Take
Modern science offers a different explanation. Acupuncture needles are believed to:
The Pain Gate: Acupuncture needles may stimulate nerves under the skin, sending signals to the spinal cord that block incoming pain signals. It's like turning down the volume on your pain receptors.
Endorphin Release: Needles might trigger the release of endorphins, the body's natural painkillers. Endorphins work similarly to morphine, binding to opioid receptors in the brain and reducing pain perception.
Anti-inflammatory Effects: Acupuncture may help regulate the body's inflammatory response. Inflammation is a natural healing process, but chronic inflammation can contribute to pain. By modulating inflammation, acupuncture could help ease discomfort.
Improved Blood Flow: Studies suggest acupuncture may improve blood circulation in the treated areas. This increased blood flow can deliver oxygen and nutrients to promote healing and reduce pain.
Do I have to believe in acupuncture for it to work?
There's ongoing debate about the placebo effect, where a patient's belief in a treatment can lead to pain relief. Acupuncture has been shown to be more effective than a placebo in some studies, suggesting a true physiological effect beyond mere belief.
Which Pain Conditions Can Acupuncture Help With:
Acupuncture can be effective for various pain conditions, including:
Chronic lower back pain
Headaches and migraines
Osteoarthritis
Neck pain
Tennis elbow
Fibromyalgia
Does Acupuncture Hurt?
Acupuncture is generally not considered a painful procedure. Acupuncture needles are very thin, much thinner than needles used for injections or blood draws. They are also solid, not hollow, which means they don't pierce your skin as much.
You may feel a slight prick when the needle is inserted, but this is usually very brief. You may also feel some tingling, numbness, or a dull ache at the insertion site. These sensations are normal and usually subside quickly.
If you do experience any pain during acupuncture, let your acupuncturist know right away. They can adjust the needle's depth or location to make you more comfortable.
How often should I get acupuncture for pain relief?
During acute injury/acute pain stage I recommend treatments 1-2 times per week for 6-8 weeks. Once the condition has stabilized and severity of pain is reduced, following up with regular acupuncture treatments 1-2 times per month can be sufficient to prevent pain from reoccurring over the long term.
Can Chinese herbs help with pain relief?
Chinese herbal medicine is an effective complementary therapy in the treatment of acute and chronic pain conditions which can be used concurrently with acupuncture, or can be employed as a stand-alone treatment option.
Some examples of herbal formulas commonly prescribed for treatment of pain conditions include:
Gui Zhi Tang, Ge Gen Tang, Ma Huang Tang, Gui Zhi Jia Ge Gen Tang, Gui Zhi Jia Gua Lou Tang, Si Ni San, Chai Hu Jia Long Gu Mu Li Tang, Da Chai Hu Tang, Xiao Jian Jiong Tang, Fu Zi Tang, Si Ni Tang, Dang Gui Shao Yao San, Gui Zhi Shao Yao Zhi Mu Tang, JIn Gui Shen Qi Wan, Shao Yao Gan Cao Tang
Are Acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine right for you?
Acupuncture offers a natural approach to pain management, and with growing scientific evidence, it's becoming a more mainstream option for pain relief. While needles might seem intimidating, the results could be a welcome relief from chronic pain.
At POPULUSS we incorporate the Classical Chinese Medicine methods of acupuncture, herbs, cupping, gua sha, and moxibustion to reduce and manage pain.
If you would like to know more about how acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine can help your specific case, I offer a FREE 15 minute phone consultation to discuss your health situation and treatment options.
If you or someone you know suffers from acute or chronic pain, I look forward to the opportunity to share the relieving benefits of acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine with you soon!
Sincerely,
Joe Recsnik L.Ac, DCCM
Licensed Chinese herbalist, acupuncturist, lead herbal pharmacist,
& Founder of POPULUSS Classical Eastern Healing
Proudly serving the nearby communities of Venice, Mar Vista, Inglewood, Ladera Heights, Palms, West Los Angeles, Santa Monica, Westwood, Brentwood, Pacific Palisades, Culver City, Playa Del Rey, Playa Vista, Westchester. LAX and Greater Los Angeles