The Basics and Benefits of Acupuncture

Acupuncture involves inserting thin, sterile, disposable needles through the skin at strategic points on the body to heal energy blockages and balance qi.

The Basics of Acupuncture

Traditional Chinese medicine experts believe that contaminants such as foreign bodies and pathogens obstruct the smooth flow of qi, or life energy, affecting the body’s natural balance. When this happens, symptoms of a disease begin to manifest. On the other hand, when qi flows freely, the natural balance of the body is maintained. As a result, it can fend off or help avoid illness. Acupuncture aims to re-establish the normal flow of qi, thereby restoring health and balance.

This alternative therapy is used to manage chemotherapy-induced pain, nausea, and discomfort. It can also reduce the symptoms of various diseases and conditions, such as fibromyalgia, sinusitis, labor pain, menstrual cramps, back pain, neck pain, osteoarthritis, respiratory disorders, and tennis elbow.

How Does Acupuncture Work?

Studies show that the stimulation of acupuncture points activates the central nervous system, causing chemicals to be released into the muscles, spinal cord, and brain. These biochemical changes boost the body’s natural ability to heal itself and can improve physical, mental, and emotional health.

Is Acupuncture Effective?

Yes. A 2018 meta-analysis of acupuncture’s impact on chronic pain revealed that it can offer pain-relief advantages that are significantly discernible from the placebo effect.

A 2017 review found that numerous acupuncture points are located at sites (known as receptive fields) where stimulation may influence the activity of several sensory neurons. Inserting needles at these specific sites may impact the way pain is processed in the central nervous system and muscles and improve blood flow to particular areas of the body.

Choosing an Acupuncturist

There are several ways to find an acupuncturist you can trust. Talk to your friends and family members who have visited an acupuncturist and ask for recommendations. Ask them about their experience working with the professional and if they’re satisfied with the result. You can also request your doctor to provide recommendations.

Check out their website and read testimonials. Also, check third party review sites for further testimonials and reviews. Double-check the credentials of the acupuncturist you are considering and make sure they carry insurance.

Finally, give them a call and evaluate their communication style and skills to decide if they’re the right choice for you.

If you are wondering “Where can I get acupuncture in Walnut Creek?” Then look no further. Here at Monarch Acupuncture & Wellness, we offer acupuncture treatment to those looking to harness the power of this ancient Chinese Medicine technique.

Health Benefits of Acupuncture

Acupuncture can relax your mind and body. It can reverse the damage done to the brain and body by a disease or health condition, allowing you to lead a happier and more fulfilling life.

Here are some notable benefits of acupuncture:

Reduces Stress 

Stress is a silent killer. It can affect your mind and body by exacerbating the symptoms of an existing health condition or causing a new disease. Acupuncture can help reduce stress by stimulating the body to produce feel-good or happy hormones such as endorphins and oxytocin and lowering stress hormone levels.

Reduces Allergy Symptoms

People with seasonal allergies can use acupuncture to boost their immune response before the onset of allergy season. Studies show that when combined with allergy medications, acupuncture may assist in reducing the symptoms of allergies.

Speeds Up the Healing Process

Acupuncture can help individuals who have undergone surgery or cancer treatment recover swiftly after their procedures. Acupuncture supports the immune system, promotes overall wellness, and boosts the body’s natural healing capabilities, accelerating the healing process.

Eases Insomnia Symptoms

When you sleep, your body repairs damaged muscles and tissues and removes toxins. Insufficient sleep can disrupt this process, increasing your risk of diseases.

Many people grappling with insomnia use prescription or over-the-counter sleeping pills to manage their symptoms. Though effective in the short term, insomnia medications can be addictive and may lead to feelings of fatigue during the day.

Acupuncture can help improve sleep quality naturally by enhancing melatonin secretion at night, reducing activity in the sympathetic nervous system, and adjusting the brain’s mood-related chemistry. It is drug-free and can hence, help reduce dependence on insomnia medications.

Reduces Blood Pressure

Unhealthy lifestyle choices can increase one’s risk of high blood pressure. Many people with high blood pressure use acupuncture as a standalone therapy or an adjunct to traditional treatment to lower their blood pressure. Acupuncture promotes relaxation and improves blood circulation to boost heart health. Sometimes, it may be more effective than medication in regulating blood pressure.

Treats Different Types of Pain

Pain can be caused by an injury or health condition. Regardless of the cause, pain can affect quality of life. Many people grappling with chronic pain need assistance with everyday tasks and have low confidence and self-esteem. Whether you are struggling with acute or chronic pain, acupuncture can help reduce your symptoms by stimulating the release of feel-good/happy hormones.

Treats Fertility Problems

Female infertility can be defined as trying to get pregnant by having unprotected sex frequently for a year without success. Thanks to our modern, unhealthy lifestyle, fertility problems are becoming increasingly common. Some other causes of female infertility include autoimmune disorders, uterine defects, and blood clotting disorders.

Acupuncture can help treat fertility problems in several ways. It can improve blood flow to reproductive organs such as the uterus and ovaries, reduce the size of uterine fibroids, and balance your hormones. Endometriosis is a common cause of female infertility. Acupuncture can treat endometriosis by improving blood flow and reducing inflammation.

Stress is another common cause of fertility problems. Studies show that acupuncture can help reduce stress and improve your mood.

Monarch Acupuncture & Wellness is committed to helping people grappling with acute and chronic conditions improve their quality of life. Our acupuncturists use various TCM techniques to target the root causes of health problems. To make an appointment today, click here.