To continue our options before opioids series, this week will focus on acupuncture.
What is it?
- Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese medicine-based approach, which triggers specific points on the skin with needles.
- Minimally invasive method to stimulate nerve-rich areas of skin, to influence tissues, glands, organs, and various functions of the body.
- Each needle produces a tiny injury at the insertion site, which is enough to stimulate the immune system, promoting circulation for healing and pain modulation.
What can it help with?
- Allergies
- Anxiety and depression
- Osteoarthritis
- Chronic pain
- Hypertension
- Insomnia
- Migraines
- Many other conditions
What to expect
- Needle insertion: Needles are inserted at various depths, and points on your body. The needles are very thin, but some discomfort may be felt. Usually, 5 to 20 needles are used in a typical treatment.
- Needle manipulation: Your practitioner may gently move, twirl the needles. They also might apply heat or mild electrical pulses.
- Needle removal: Most times the needles remain in place for 10-20 minutes while you stay relaxed. There is usually no discomfort when the needles are removed.
- Sources:
https://www.healthline.com/health/acupuncture-how-does-it-work-scientifically#home-alternatives
https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/acupuncture/about/pac-20392763
