The use of traditional Chinese medicine in America has increased dramatically in recent years, and Americans have never been more interested in finding out more about it. Acupuncture, one of the most commonly used treatments from traditional Chinese medicine, has gained notoriety as a proven method of pain relief, and there are many people who swear by its usefulness. Here’s how acupuncture has become such an increasingly popular way to manage pain and what science says about its effectiveness.

How Acupuncture Can Help You

Acupuncture can help with numerous problems including but not limited to:

Gynecological Issues

Labor pain, menstrual cramps, irregular cycles, PMS, Infertility and menopausal symptoms can all be improved by acupuncture. Thousands of women suffer from excruciating pain from menstrual cramps and labor. Those who suffer from infertility can benefit from acupuncture as it improves ovarian function balances the endocrine system and hormones and improves sperm quality

Head, Neck and Back Pain

Headaches/Migraines, back-specific pain, neck-specific pain, is the short list of upper body pain that can be alleviated by the use of acupuncture. The insertion of needles reduces inflammation and increases circulation, allowing pain to subside and promote relaxation.

Ear, Nose and Throat

Acupuncture can help reduce allergies, improve thyroid issues,  respiratory disorders, colds and flus. By stimulating the defensive Qi in this area, your body can naturally improve immunity and work to lessen the onset of allergic reactions.

Chronic Illnesses 

While your illness may seem helpless, acupuncture can alleviate the symptoms of high blood pressure, high cholesterol, (metabolic disease, autoimmune conditions, type 2 diabetes, addictions, and IBS. 

Here’s The Proof

Still skeptical? Maybe some statistics will change your mind. Acupuncture is proven to ease pain and provide relief for a plethora of issues, whether they be chronic, emotional or even neurological. 

• Studies show that the frequency of headache is dropped by 50%  or more in up to 59% of individuals receiving acupuncture and this effect can persist for more than 6 months. 
• Many women suffer with infertility, but those who have tried acupuncture show up to an 80% increase in fertility. 
• Trouble sleeping? Sleep studies show that acupuncture can help with insomnia and even improve sleep quality overall. 

If the problem you are suffering from was not listed, that doesn’t mean acupuncture can’t help! The best step is to consult your doctor if acupuncture if right for you and ask for a referral to see a licensed acupuncture practitioner. 

The Basic Science Behind Acupuncture

Acupuncture is the practice of using small, thin needles to stimulate the nervous system through acupuncture points, or meridians. In TCM, these meridians contain a flow of Qi and when the flow is disturbed, the entire body can become unbalanced. When pressure is applied and flow is restored, overall health is improved. 

The body contains over 400 meridians that make up a huge web of the primary system, 12 of them are over all the major organs that keep your body healthy and alive. While Eastern medicine says that these meridians are split 50/50 between Yin and Yang, the two ways of Qi, western medicine has shown that they are linked to the central nervous system. The nervous system is responsible for sending chemicals and messages to the muscles, spinal cord, and brain. These biochemical changes from acupuncture stimulate the body’s natural healing abilities and promote physical and emotional well-being. 

In an average acupuncture session, the practitioner will discuss what has been causing the issue you came to rectify and move forward with a treatment plan. The plan often includes one or several sessions based on the severity and location of the issue. While needles may seem daunting, these are much different than those of a flu shot or anything from a Western doctor visit. An Acupuncture needle can be as thin as a cat’s whisker.

There is no reason to rule out acupuncture if you are suffering from any ailment. In this world, instant relief is available to those  with busy schedules and demanding jobs. A 30-60 minute session and your Qi will be flowing. Truly, there is nothing to lose. Science agrees!