Pain Relief Through Acupuncture: Exploring Its Efficacy

Almost every person will experience some type of pain at least once in their lifetime. Persistent pain can lead to mobility problems, affecting a person’s quality of life.

If you’re experiencing persistent pain, whether from overuse injuries or underlying health conditions, it’s essential not to dismiss it. Ignoring pain may mask a potentially serious health issue that could deteriorate over time. Seeking timely attention, such as exploring options like acupuncture near me in Walnut Creek, can provide relief and prevent further complications. Chronic pain not only affects physical well-being but can also take a toll on mental health, leading to increased stress and anxiety. Taking proactive steps to address pain is crucial for maintaining overall health and well-being.

Types of Pain

Pain can be categorized in various ways depending on its origin, duration, intensity, and underlying causes. Here are some common types of pain:

Acute Pain

Usually comes on suddenly and is often caused by an injury or surgery. It may indicate an underlying problem and is a sign that something is wrong. Acute pain typically resolves once the underlying cause is treated. It is short-lived and usually does not last more than six months.

Neuropathic Pain

Results from damage to the nervous system. Neuropathic pain feels like a shooting, burning, or stabbing sensation. The intricacies of neuropathic pain lie in its diverse manifestations, which can vary widely from individual to individual. For some, it may present as an intense, lightning-like jolt shooting through the affected area, while for others, it may manifest as a persistent, burning ache that refuses to subside. Regardless of the specific sensations experienced, neuropathic pain often proves challenging to manage, as it can disrupt daily activities, impair mobility, and significantly diminish one’s quality of life.

Understanding the underlying mechanisms contributing to neuropathic pain is crucial for effective management. By targeting the root causes of nerve dysfunction and employing a multifaceted approach that may include medications, physical therapy, and complementary therapies like acupuncture, individuals grappling with neuropathic pain can find relief and regain control over their lives.

Chronic Pain

Chronic pain persists over a longer period of time, usually more than three to six months. It can be constant or recurring and may be caused by health conditions such as arthritis and fibromyalgia or nerve damage. Chronic pain can significantly impact one’s ability to navigate everyday life without assistance and often requires ongoing management.

Nociceptive Pain

Nociceptive pain occurs when tissues sustain damage. People living with nociceptive pain describe it as a sharp, aching, and throbbing sensation. Radicular pain is caused by irritated nerve roots, whereas visceral pain occurs when heart muscles become inflamed or sustain damage. Somatic pain happens when pain receptors in your bones, muscles or skin are activated.

Acupuncture for Pain

Many people grappling with pain turn to acupuncture for help. Acupuncture is an integral part of traditional Chinese medicine. For over 3,000 years, acupuncture has served as a method for managing various health conditions. Unlike many therapies that focus on the symptoms of pain, acupuncture targets its root cause. It is drug-free and can hence help reduce dependence on pain medication.

Here are some ways in which acupuncture can help reduce pain.

Stimulates the Release of Feel-good Hormones

Acupuncture near me in Walnut Creek stimulates the body to secrete feel-good hormones such as endorphins, oxytocin, and serotonin. As the name implies, feel-good or happy hormones reduce pain and promote well-being.

Activates the Nervous System

An acupuncturist inserts paper-thin acupuncture needles at specific points on the body known as acupoints to stimulate nerves, muscles, and connective tissue. This stimulation triggers the release of neurotransmitters, which modulate pain signals.

Reduces Inflammation

Some studies suggest that acupuncture may have anti-inflammatory effects, and can help reduce pain associated with inflammatory health conditions.

Reduces Stress

Stress can cause a person’s muscles to tense up, leading to pain which can be felt anywhere in the body. Acupuncture stimulates the hypothalamus and pituitary glands to produce the body’s natural pain killers. It also removes toxins from the body and improves blood circulation, promoting healing and reducing pain.

Normalization of Nervous System Function

Acupuncture is thought to help restore balance to the autonomic nervous system-the system responsible for regulating heart rate, digestion, immune response, and other involuntary bodily functions.

Gate Control Theory

According to the gate control theory, acupuncture stimulates nerves to close the “gates” in the spinal cord that allow pain signals to pass through to the brain, and can help block pain signals to reduce the perception of pain.

Is Acupuncture Safe?

Acupuncture, when administered by a skilled and qualified acupuncturist utilizing sterile needles, is widely considered a safe practice. Typically, individuals undergoing acupuncture experience minimal to no adverse effects. However, it’s not uncommon to encounter mild sensations of discomfort or slight pain following a session. This discomfort tends to dissipate naturally within 24 to 48 hours. It’s essential not to panic if you do experience such sensations, as they are often indicative of the body’s response to the treatment and signify its natural healing process at work. Rest assured, with proper administration and adherence to hygiene standards, acupuncture remains a safe and effective method for managing various health conditions.

Beyond Pain Relief

Acupuncture can improve one’s overall health and well-being. Acupuncturists believe that a disease is caused by energy blockages. They insert acupuncture needles at certain points on the body to heal energy blockages. Feel-good hormones secreted by the body during an acupuncture session improve mood and promote happiness and pleasure.

Monarch Acupuncture & Wellness is dedicated to assisting individuals navigating health challenges in regaining control of their well-being. If you’re grappling with persistent pain, don’t hesitate to explore options like acupuncture in Walnut Creek. Taking proactive steps towards pain management is crucial for reclaiming your vitality and enhancing your overall quality of life. To learn more, call 925-268-8830.