Acupuncture, a cornerstone of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), has been practiced for over 2,000 years and is increasingly recognized in Western medicine as a complementary therapy for chronic pain management. Chronic pain, which persists for months or even years, can be debilitating and challenging to treat with conventional methods. Conditions such as back pain, arthritis, and migraines are among the most common sources of chronic pain, and acupuncture has been widely studied for its potential to alleviate these conditions. Can acupuncture help with chronic pain? Yes!
Chronic Pain and Qi
In TCM, chronic pain is understood as a disruption in the flow of Qi (vital energy) through the body’s meridians, or energy pathways. According to this theory, pain arises when Qi becomes blocked, stagnant, or imbalanced, often due to factors such as injury, stress, or environmental influences. Acupuncture aims to restore the smooth flow of Qi by inserting thin needles into specific acupoints along the meridians. This process stimulates the body’s natural healing mechanisms, reduces inflammation, and promotes the release of endorphins, the body’s natural pain-relieving chemicals. Additionally, acupuncture addresses the root causes of pain rather than merely masking symptoms, making it a holistic approach to chronic pain management.
Chronic Back Pain
Chronic back pain is one of the most well-researched applications of acupuncture. Lower back pain, in particular, is a leading cause of disability worldwide, and many patients seek alternative therapies when conventional treatments fail. Studies have shown that acupuncture can provide significant relief for individuals with chronic back pain. For example, a 2017 meta-analysis published in the journal Pain found that acupuncture was more effective than sham (fake points) acupuncture or no acupuncture in reducing pain intensity and improving function. Commonly used acupoints for back pain include BL23 (Shenshu), located near the lower back, and BL40 (Weizhong), found behind the knee. These points strengthen the kidneys, which are associated with lower back health in TCM, and promote the flow of Qi and blood to the affected area. Can acupuncture help with chronic pain? Yes!
Chronic Arthritis Pain
Arthritis, both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid, is another condition for which acupuncture has shown consistent benefit. Osteoarthritis causes pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility in the joints, often affecting the knees, hips, and hands. Acupuncture alleviates arthritis pain by reducing inflammation, improving circulation, and stimulating the release of endorphins. A 2019 review in The Journal of Pain concluded that acupuncture effectively reduced pain and improved physical function in patients with knee osteoarthritis. Acupoints such as ST36 (Zusanli), located below the knee, and GB34 (Yanglingquan), found on the outer side of the leg, are frequently used to address arthritis pain. These points support joint health and enhance the body’s ability to heal itself.
Chronic Migraines
Migraines, a type of chronic headache characterized by severe pain, nausea, and sensitivity to light and sound, have also been a focus of acupuncture research. Migraines can be difficult to manage with medication alone, and many patients seek alternative therapies to reduce the frequency and intensity of their attacks. Studies suggest that acupuncture may be an effective option for migraine prevention and management. A 2016 Cochrane review found that acupuncture was associated with a significant reduction in migraine frequency compared to routine care or sham acupuncture. Acupoints commonly used for migraines include GB20 (Fengchi), located at the base of the skull, and LI4 (Hegu), found on the hand between the thumb and index finger. These points relieve headaches by regulating Qi flow and reducing tension in the head and neck. Can acupuncture help with chronic pain? Yes!
How Acupuncture Works
While the mechanisms of acupuncture are not fully understood from a Western scientific perspective, research suggests that it influences the nervous system, reduces inflammation, and modulates pain signals in the brain. For example, neuroimaging studies have shown that acupuncture can activate areas of the brain associated with pain perception and regulation. Additionally, acupuncture has been found to increase the production of endogenous opioids, which play a key role in pain relief.
Despite the extensive body of evidence supporting acupuncture for chronic pain, it is important to note that individual responses to treatment can vary. While most people experience significant relief, others may find little to no benefit. At Raleigh Acupuncture, we will not treat more than four times if a patient is not having a positive effect. Factors such as the skill of the practitioner, the frequency and duration of treatment, and the specific condition being treated can all influence outcomes.
Conclusion
In conclusion, acupuncture offers an excellent approach to managing chronic pain, particularly for conditions such as back pain, arthritis, and migraines. Rooted in the principles of traditional Chinese medicine, acupuncture aims to restore balance and promote healing by addressing the underlying causes of pain. Tens of thousands of patients each year find acupuncture to be a valuable tool in their journey toward pain relief and improved quality of life.
About Raleigh Acupuncture
At Raleigh Acupuncture Associates, we are deeply committed to providing the highest quality professional acupuncture while being rooted in strong Judeo-Christian values of love, faith, kindness, and truth. Our practice is guided by a belief in compassionate care, where each patient is treated with respect and dignity, regardless of their background, faith, or beliefs. We welcome people from all walks of life, creating a warm and inclusive environment where healing and holistic wellness are our top priorities. Our dedication to delivering exceptional acupuncture is paired with a genuine love for helping others, making our clinic a place where faith and top-tier medical care come together for the well-being of every patient.
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What our Clients are Saying
I’m a golfer and started having trouble with my left shoulder over a year ago. My doctor wanted to do surgery, but I wanted to try other alternatives first. So I tried acupuncture. The folks at Raleigh Acupuncture were very professional, reasonably priced and did excellent work. They resolved my shoulder pain completely. I use them now for other pains in my post-50 body! Thank you Raleigh Acupuncture.
I’m a dentist and over the last 20 years the nature of my work and positions required by my work had resulted in chronic neck pain. It affected my sleep, limited my ability to exercise, and was just a real pain in the neck! A friend at church recommended Raleigh Acupuncture and I gave it a try. I have to say that I was a bit skeptical, but gave it a try because I had tried a number other therapies with no success. I’m glad I did. They resolved my neck pain completely!
All of my joints were hurting. I’ve got fibromyalgia and it effects me by making my joints hurt. The pain would move around from place to place, first the hip, the next day the shoulder, then the knee, etc. The practitioner at Raleigh Acupuncture explained that the best way to treat my kind of moving joint pain was to treat me holistically. Instead of treating the hip one day, the shoulder the next, they treated the root of the pain. They said this type of treatment would also improve my mood and my sleep. Right on all counts. I started feeling better after the second treatment. It’s like all of the joints just settled down and stopped giving me trouble. I had less flares and the intensity of the pain went way down. My sleep is better, not just because I have less pain. I’m more relaxed and less stressed. I’ve made this treatment a regular part of my life. I’m very grateful.
I suffered from low back pain for years and tried many different remedies. When I came to Raleigh Acupuncture, they really listened to understand my issues. I can honestly say that they cured my chronic back pain. I didn’t think it was possible, after all these years. I highly recommend this practice. The doctors take the time and do good work.
