John VorhausStandard treatments like physical therapy and anti-inflammatory medications often provide some relief from chronic pain. Still, when they are not effective, acupuncture is an option worth considering. According to research, acupuncture is a reliable option in providing relief for chronic pain. It is associated with minimal side effects, provided it is administered by a medical professional. Here, we will explain why an acupuncturist in Hazlet could be the answer to your chronic pain.
How Does Acupuncture Work?
Generally, acupuncturists insert very thin needles into your skin at strategic points around your body. These needles are virtually painless only when done by a medically trained practitioner. Their purpose is to correct the imbalance in your body’s energy flow, known as qi. The scientific interpretation shows that acupuncture eases pain by affecting hormone levels, neurotransmitters, or your immune system.
Effect of Acupuncture on Your Body
According to a study published in the journal Neuroscience Letters, sticking these fine needles in specific places would relieve chronic pains. This is because, by using brain imaging, they discovered that using traditional therapeutic acupuncture points was the key to providing relief to any type of pain.
A paper published in the journal Anesthesia & Analgesia reported that when these thin needles are inserted at strategic acupuncture points, they transmit a signal to the brain and trigger the production of endorphins that lower the perception of pain.
If you use Western medicine, it may seem odd to think that when your body’s energy levels are restored, it results in increased blood circulation. But, modern medical care has approved that acupuncture really works to relieve chronic pain.
Conditions Improved by Acupuncture
Both the American College of Physicians and the American Association of Neurological Surgeons have approved acupuncture as a minimally invasive treatment alternative for relieving back pain. Moreover, according to research by the National Institutes of Health, acupuncture can be effective in treating sleep disorders, menstrual pain, and other health conditions such as:
- Osteoarthritis pain
- Neck pain
- Chronic low back pain.
- Migraines and headaches
- Lowering some side effects of cancer treatment like vomiting and nausea.
Benefits of Acupuncture for Pain Management
Over the years, several studies have proven that acupuncture works perfectly on pain, such as the joint pain common in people with chronic neck and back issues. The National Institute of Health (NIH) claims that ”acupuncture is a reliable option for people with chronic pain.” Other than relieving joint pain, acupuncture also has other benefits that include:
- Reduced stress
- Improved body energy levels
- Better mental clarity
- Improved sleep
Provided acupuncture is used as part of an overall pain management procedure; it may help improve your tolerance for pain without causing fatal side effects.
Conclusion
The American College of Physicians recommends first trying to relieve chronic back pain with other natural therapies like acupuncture. Dr. Yuliya Chernyak, DAOM, at the Central New Jersey Acupuncture & Wellness, has created several personalized treatment options like acupuncture to help treat all types of chronic pain. For more information on traditional Chinese medications, feel free to schedule an appointment online or contact our office in Hazlet, New Jersey.