Acupuncture is best known for its ability to successfully treat pain. We said before that Acupuncture does not recognise symptoms as a diagnosis in its self and the same is true for pain - although it is a physical manifestation, it is an indication that there is imbalance, stagnation or deficiency somewhere else in the body.
This has great implications for how the pain is treated - sometimes the exact location of points used in treatment are directly related to where the problem is, for example local shoulder points to treat shoulder pain, but points on the wrist may also be selected as distal points, while other points may be used to harmonise the pulse and are seemingly unrelated to the shoulder but are important in achieving balance.
How does acupuncture stop pain?
Acupuncture is very effective in its approach to treating pain because it is able to decreases pain levels and at the same time address underlying imbalances and stimulate the body’s healing response.
How many treatments will I need?
This varies considerably based on the specific condition being treated. There are several factors to take into account including age, medical history, lifestyle, treatment goals and current pain levels. Generally speaking however, acute pain (less than 3 months duration) is often resolved in a short series of treatments spaced close together and chronic pain requires consistent regular treatment to achieve long-term pain relief.
How else will acupuncture help me deal with my pain?
Almost every person finds acupuncture treatments to be very relaxing. Many do not expect this effect, especially when dealing with painful conditions, but acupuncture balances various parts of the body together. This results in a person feeling calm, peaceful and very relaxed. Pain is stressful and can wear someone down causing irritability, tension and insomnia. By relaxing the whole person, acupuncture also helps eliminate these other negative aspects of pain. And it does so in a natural way, with no negative side effects.
