Does Acupuncture Work for Pain
Does Acupuncture Work for Pain?
When you’re in constant pain anything can seem worth trying. After all, even a few minutes relief can feel like bliss. But, it’s important to try methods that are actually proven to work and will help you in the long term.
The question is whether acupuncture is one of those methods.
Understanding Acupuncture
Acupuncture has been practiced in parts of Asia for hundreds, if not thousands of years. However, it has only been in the last couple of decades that it has appeared in western countries, and only very recently has it been accepted as a potential option for pain relief.
The process involves an understanding of the nervous system inside the body. Once you know where to place them, extremely fine needles are inserted into the skin in key places. These trigger the release of endorphins and potentially communicate with your brain to improve your mood.
It’s possible that a needle may be twirled or twisted. In fact, in some instances, heat is applied to the needle to boost the effects of acupuncture.
You should note that the Japanese version of acupuncture inserts the needles to a shallower depth than the Chinese version. The needles are also not manipulated or moved, once they are in place they’ll stay there for between 10 and 30 minutes.
It’s normal to have between 4 and 10 needles inserted in one go. You’ll probably find that you have between 6 and 12 sessions over the course of 3-4 months.
The good news is that acupuncture is generally considered to be safe. The biggest risk is if needles are re-used. This shouldn’t happen as all needles should be sealed in a packet and single-use only. To ensure this is the case use a reputable practice, such as Physio Wellers hill.
In fact practices like this can link your acupuncture treatment with some physic exercises and you’ll potentially see a transformation in your ability to move as well as a reduction in pain.
The only other known complications occur when a needle is accidentally put into the space between the lungs and the chest wall, but this is extremely rare and can be easily treated by medical professionals.
Does It Relieve The Pain
There have been a number of studies into the pain-relieving effects of acupuncture and the results are mixed. However, the majority of research studies have been very small and there is evidence that it does provide pain relief.
It is possible that acupuncture only works for some people as a pain reliever. But, it is equally possible that more studies are needed to confirm how effective this is at relieving pain.
What is certain is that there are plenty of cases where it has been successful at relieving pain. If you’re suffering from pain that should be all you need to know to give acupuncture a try. There are no negative side effects and it does offer the potential to relieve your pain. That has to be worth trying.