Sick of popping pills for pain? Stick a needle in it instead. A recent review of 29 high-quality, randomized, controlled trials on acupuncture. It concludes that this traditional Chinese practice is helpful for treating chronic pain in the neck, back, and shoulders, and from osteoarthritis and headaches.
The researchers, who published their findings in the Journal of the American Medical Association’s Internal Medicine. They said the effect of acupuncture was greater than either simulated acupuncture or no acupuncture, indicating that acupuncture’s effect is more than a placebo. In each trial, the impact on chronic pain was seen within four weeks.
Overall, researchers say, acupuncture’s effectiveness relies on two factors. The specific depth and placement of needles and patients’ belief in the treatment.
How Acupuncture Works
According to traditional Chinese medicine, sticking needles in certain points in the body connects with energy-conducting meridians. This influence the spiritual, physical, emotional, and mental balance of yin and yang. In the West, scientists say needle stimulation discourages or inhibits nerve conduction.
What To Expect With Acupuncture
Most treatment occurs in what looks like a doctor’s examining room. The practitioner takes a medical history and asks questions about your specific health problem. Depending on the placement of the metallic, hair-thin needles, you may have to remove some clothing. The procedure may feel energizing or relaxing but it should not feel painful. If it does, be sure to tell the practitioner. He or she may be using defective needles or placing them incorrectly another reason to do your research and go with a pro.
Acupuncture Resources
Plenty of medical doctors (M.D.’s) and doctors of osteopathic medicine (D.O.’s) are trained in this, although a medical degree is not required to practice it. To learn more about acupuncture or find a practitioner, visit the American Academy of Medical Acupuncture or the National Institutes of Health or speak to your primary care physician.
