Have you Tried Acupuncture for Managing Chronic Pain?

Acupuncture is the gentle insertion of thin needles into specifically targeted areas of the body. Its origin extends 2500 years as an integral tenant of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Today, however, its theory and practice have evolved beyond classical application towards effective pain management.

So how does it work? The theory behind acupuncture is extremely complex and multifaceted. Basically, it works via two main systems; the release of natural pain relieving chemicals (called endogenous opiates) and sensory nerve interactions signaling pain inhibition from the brain to the affected area.  

Natural, endogenous opiates are chemicals produced in the body that have a potent analgesic effect (reduce pain perception). They include endorphins, serotonin and epinephrine. Acupuncture insertion stimulates the release of these chemicals in the central nervous system, which results in a decreased perception of pain. Similarly, endogenous opiates have anti-inflammatory effects. Electroacupuncture elicits immediate pain relief by acting on sensory nerve pathways. Vibration information stimulates nociceptors (specialized pain receptors), which initiates an inhibitory pathway from the brain to the affected area. 

Needling technique is important for effective pain relief results. There are two main acupuncture techniques:

1.       Rapid Needling: Involves insertion of a needle into an identified trigger point (area of intense pain within a band of muscle) with manipulation (in and out motion) of the needle at a quick pace. This is the best technique for dissolving trigger points and relieving muscle pain.

2.       Electroacupuncture: Involves the connection of a mild electric current to the Acupuncture waterloo. It feels like a vibration in your muscle and may cause a slight muscle contraction response. This is the best technique to use for inflammation, chronic muscle pain and joint pain.

Acupuncture can help you with…

  

•          Myofascial Pain Syndrome (chronic muscle pain from trigger points) 
•          Chronic neck and back pain
•          Fibromyalgia
•          Osteoarthritis
•          Joint Pain
•          Tension headaches
•          Sciatica
•          Plantar Fasciitis
•          Post-operative pain
•          Diabetes related peripheral-neuropathy

Other pain treatments include pharmaceutical opioid management (e.g. Percocet, Naproxen, Ibuprofen, etc.), injectable opioids (e.g. morphine) and corrective surgery. As a minimally invasive technique, acupuncture should be considered as first-line treatment prior to implementing higher risk procedures. Furthermore, if extensive therapy is indicated (e.g. surgery), acupuncture should be used to compliment recovery. Additional benefits include decreased cost, avoidance of opiate-induced side effects and avoidance of analgesic tolerance (when the same dose of a medication is no longer effective).

Practitioners qualified to practice acupuncture include Naturopathic Doctors, TCM certified practitioners and some Chiropractors and Physiotherapists. However, Naturopathic Doctors uniquely receive 4 years of intense training in the practice itself. Furthermore, they have the anatomy and clinical background to couple traditional acupuncture with more advanced and current theories.

There’s another component to the efficacy of this treatment…it forces you to relax for 30-60 min while the needles are doing their work. When dealing with pain, stress management and self-care are key. Therefore, having time devoted to healing, and having a skilled practitioner take care of you will help. 

For more info : Acupuncture Toronto

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