Benefits of Acupuncture Therapy, Fort Lauderdale
Centuries-old and embedded in the practice of Chinese traditional medicine, acupuncture involves the insertion of thin needles on certain pressure points across the body.
It works on the belief that the body is controlled by an energy flow or qi. Problems or blockages with qi along these pathways are responsible for many illnesses. Toxins, stress, diet, trauma, hormones, and injuries can all block qi. The practice of acupuncture is said to fix blockages and allow qi to flow through the body and allow normal functioning.
Modern acupuncturists view the acupuncture points as stimulating nerves, releasing the body’s natural pain-fighting process.
In this procedure, tiny needles are inserted into strategic points on the skin to help balance energy flow. The needles are inserted at specific pressure points, which trigger the body’s neurotransmitters.
Mostly used to reduce chronic pain, it can also be used for overall stress management. Acupuncture therapy can be viewed as targeting certain areas to stimulate nerve muscles to boost the body’s natural chemicals.
What’s the hype?
If you don’t know what acupuncture is, the idea of needles in your skin can seem a bit frightening. However, it is an old and trusted technique. It may help with different types of muscular and other aches and pains in the body.
Acupuncture is popular in relieving the discomfort of many musculoskeletal conditions.
Acupuncture treatments vary based on the practitioner’s methods and treatment strategy, along with the patient’s medical history and daily routine. Acupuncture can also be combined with electro-stimulation or other traditional procedures, such as acupressure, moxibustion, cupping, Gua Sha massage, and herbal therapies.
Arthritis
Arthritis is a disorder of the joints where people experience pain and swelling caused by inflammation. Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and osteoarthritis (OA) are common types of arthritis and can prevent people from performing activities of daily life. Patients resort to many treatments and medicines. Acupuncture is a popular one for arthritis patients.
By inserting an acupuncture needle at specific points, hormones that help control inflammation are boosted. It may also activate other pain-relieving chemicals in the body.
Studies suggest that anti-inflammatory effects from needle insertion suppress inflammatory responses, improve blood flow, and relax muscles. While it cannot cure or undo arthritis, it may prove to be useful for managing chronic pain.
Acupuncture can be a helpful alternative method for managing osteoarthritis, says the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. Acupuncture combined with other treatments can be beneficial for managing symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis and can improve quality of life. The benefits include decreased joint pain, inflammation, and stiffness.
Neck Pain
Neck pain is a common symptom many people experience. It is often accompanied by sore muscles. The neck is quite vulnerable as it supports the head’s weight and movement, and is susceptible to injuries and strains.,
Neck strains can be caused by using your phone too much or sleeping for a long time in an uncomfortable position. Worn neck joints due to age, nerve compression due to herniated discs, and even injuries and diseases can cause prolonged neck pain.
In traditional Chinese medicine, neck pain is usually a sign of something deeper going on, which is why your acupuncturist may check your back and spine’s health to check for other symptoms. Needles will then be placed based on the location of the pain and the underlying cause.
Muscle Pain
Muscles can tighten due to sitting in one state for a long period, lack of hydration and nutrients, fatigue, overworking, and small tears in the muscle caused by external injuries. It can cause pain with a burning sensation, also known as a muscle knot. They usually occur in the back or legs, but the neck and shoulder are standard points, mainly due to the modern lifestyle and working environment.
They are quite painful and limit mobility; thus, over-the-counter medications are not a long-term solution as the cause hasn’t been addressed. The best solution is to work the knots, even though they are very stubborn.
Acupuncture can help get right to the center of the knot and let it relax. You may feel the difference with a single Acupuncture treatment, but you may require more sessions depending on the severity.
When to Consider Acupuncture
Acupuncture is a complementary treatment and should be discussed with health care providers. It is important to get proper medical care before considering acupuncture to help with severe pain. When choosing a treatment, make sure you contact a licensed acupuncturist with proper education and training. Spine and Joint Center provides acupuncture therapy in Fort Lauderdale, helping you find alternative solutions to manage pain and lead a better life.
