Acupuncture is an ancient form of Chinese medicine that involves the insertion of fine needles into the skin at specific points. It is believed to balance energy in the body and help maintain health by affecting different systems and organs.
Today, scientific studies support acupuncture treatment as a safe and effective option.
If you’ve been considering acupuncture, please read on. We are unpacking five specific areas of wellness supported by this age-old treatment.
Defining Acupuncture Treatment
This ancient practice originated in China over 2,500 years ago. It involves using needles to stimulate specific points in the body’s energy flow. Employed for many different ailments for centuries, acupuncture finds modern use as a pain reliever and a way to reduce inflammation. It has become popular for people suffering from:
- Painful periods
- Insomnia
- Fibromyalgia
- Endometriosis
- Stress headaches and migraines
During the treatment, acupuncture needles are inserted using a very thin filiform needle that is attached to a longer shaft for easy manipulation. It is generally a pain-free procedure with long-lasting effects.
1. Painful Periods (Dysmenorrhea)
One common reason people seek out acupuncture treatment is to assist in reducing menstrual cramps. It’s a great option for any woman who’s struggling with pain during her period, as well as those who want to manage heavy bleeding and associated symptoms.
2. Stress Headaches and Migraines
Stress headaches are often caused by tension in the neck and shoulders, as well as the muscles around your eyes. Tension headaches are also more likely to appear when you’re under stress or feeling anxious. Acupuncture can help reduce anxiety levels long-term by calming the nervous system that controls stress hormones in our bodies. It can also have a positive effect on muscle tension around the head/neck region as well as overall body wellness.
3. Insomnia and Sleep Disorders
Acupuncture has been shown to reduce anxiety and stress, which in turn helps improve sleep quality. In fact, some trials have shown acupuncture as superior to traditional medication in relieving insomnia. And a combination of natural herbs and acupuncture was highly effective.
4. Fibromyalgia and Back Problems
Fibromyalgia and back pain are two typical issues addressed by acupuncture. The treatment can help relieve muscle pain and stiffness, as well as reduce stress and anxiety. Treatment can decrease the number of painful points experienced during flare-ups. It may also help increase mobility in people who are bedridden due to their condition.
For those who suffer from chronic lower back pain, it works to increase blood flow and reduce inflammation and muscle spasms.
5. Menopausal Symptoms and Endometriosis Treatment
Acupuncture is an alternative to hormone replacement therapy (HRT) for those looking for a natural solution to menopausal symptoms. In the same way, it can assist with endometriosis which causes chronic and often painful periods, heavy bleeding, and abdominal pain. Acupuncture may be able to help some women, as it can reduce inflammation and improve blood circulation in the pelvis.
Support Your Whole Body
Using acupuncture treatment to support your physical and emotional health is an excellent way to improve your quality of life. It is a safe, non-invasive procedure that helps your body heal itself by balancing your energy and stimulating blood flow. Acupuncture can be used along with other treatments, including medication and surgery, to treat many common health problems.
We warmly encourage you to book an appointment with our qualified acupuncture practitioner and feel the benefits for yourself.