pain and injuries
Regardless of the pain's cause, acupuncture can offer significant benefits. As a retired professional dancer and yoga teacher, I can personally relate to injuries and empathise with my patients enduring pain
Commonly treated pain conditions include
~ Back Pain ~ Sciatica ~ Postoperative pain ~ Neck Sprain ~ Shoulder Pain ~ Arthritis ~
~ Knee pain ~ Fibromyalgia ~ Joint Pain ~ Concussion ~ Tennis elbow ~ Headaches ~
how might acupuncture help with pain and injury recovery?
In Chinese medicine, pain is believed to be caused by a disruption or blockage of the flow of Qi, which is the vital energy that circulates throughout the body along pathways known as meridians. When Qi becomes stagnant or blocked, it can cause pain or discomfort in the affected area.
From a Chinese medicine view, there are several factors that can contribute to the blockage of Qi and the development of pain. These include emotional stress, physical trauma, poor nutrition, and external pathogens such as wind, cold, or dampness.
To address pain from a Chinese medicine perspective, treatment focuses on restoring the flow of Qi and removing any blockages. This can be achieved through various modalities such as acupuncture, herbal medicine, cupping, and moxibustion, among others. By restoring the flow of Qi, Chinese medicine aims to alleviate pain and promote overall health and wellness.
From a Western medical perspective, acupuncture has been shown to have various physiological effects that can help with injury recovery.
Firstly, acupuncture can stimulate the release of endorphins, which are the body's natural painkillers. Endorphins can help to reduce pain and inflammation, which are common symptoms of injury.
Secondly, acupuncture can increase blood flow to the injured area, which can aid in the delivery of nutrients and oxygen to the damaged tissues. Increased blood flow can also help to remove waste products from the area, which can reduce inflammation and promote healing.
Thirdly, acupuncture can stimulate the nervous system, which can help to reduce muscle tension and improve joint mobility. This can be particularly helpful for injuries that affect the musculoskeletal system, such as strains, sprains, and other soft tissue injuries.
Acupuncture is believed to work by stimulating the body's natural healing processes and promoting the release of various neurotransmitters and hormones that can help to reduce pain, inflammation, and other symptoms of injury. While the exact mechanisms of acupuncture are not yet fully understood, its effectiveness in promoting injury recovery has been supported by a growing body of research.