Have you been suffering with a chronic or acute pain condition? Did you know that acupuncture has been used safely and effectively to treat a wide variety of pain conditions for over 3,000 years? Recent studies point to acupuncture’s ability to affect the release of pain-reducing chemicals (such as endorphins) in the brain. It is also widely believed that acupuncture helps reduce inflammation, improve circulation and soften tight muscles.

For a list of common pain conditions frequently treated by acupuncture click here

NIH Gives Acupuncture Thumbs-Up

freedom form pain image In December 2004, the National Institutes of Health published their findings from a randomized clinical trial of acupuncture for the treatment of knee osteoarthritis. This trial conducted over 26 weeks was one of the most comprehensive studies done to date. The results concluded that “those who received acupuncture had a 40% decrease in pain and nearly a 40% increase in function….”1

The Golfer that Could

Ed, a 45-year-old man, came to see us after being referred by his wife. He had suffered from chronic neck and upper back pain for many years. His doctors had diagnosed him with herniated discs in his neck. Because of these herniations, he experienced a considerable amount of pain. The pain began in his neck and radiated into his shoulder and down his back between his shoulder blades. Because of this pain, he was sure that he would have to give up his favorite pastime, golf. The discomfort in his neck impaired his swing and made it difficult to get through a full round of golf. Needless to say, Ed’s game suffered as a result.

I assured Ed that I believed we could help. After a week of three treatments, Ed left for vacation. Upon returning, he enthusiastically recounted his ability to play 3 rounds of golf, two of which were back-to-back, without any pain. After years of discomfort, Ed was relieved to finally get his active lifestyle back. Ed continues to receive acupuncture treatments to keep his pain under control and is on his way to improving his score.

Freedom from Pain

Many suffering from pain turn to medications and, at times, and surgery for relief. Acupuncture offers an alternative solution and a chance at an improved quality of life. If, like Ed, pain impairs you from having the active lifestyle you desire, consider acupuncture as an effective pain management solution.

REFERENCES

1. National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, “Acupuncture Relieves Pain and Improves Function in Knee Osteoarthritis,” (National Institutes of Health, Dec. 20, 2004) at
www.nih.gov/news/pr/dec2004/nccam-20.htm