Acupuncture for pain
There is now a good body of research into acupuncture for pain, so much so that it is recommended by the National institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE).
Chronic pain
Chronic pain is classed by the NHS as any pain that lasts for over 12 weeks. It includes many different variations including back pain, sciatica, headaches and migraines and shoulder pain. The cause is often unknown leading to a negative impact on mood.
How acupuncture can help with pain
Acupuncture has been shown to activate a number of the body’s opioids as well as improving the brain’s sensitivity to them. Studies have also shown that a number of the other biochemicals involved in pain reduction are released or regulated by acupuncture stimulation, including ATP, adenosine, GABA and substance P.
Research into acupuncture for pain
A large study looked at back pain, along with osteoarthritis of the knee, neck pain, migraine, tension headaches, and shoulder pain. This review looked at data from a total of 20,827 patients in 39 trials. In addition to its size, the review’s strengths are that it included only high-quality clinical trials and had access to the individual patient data. The results found that acupuncture was more effective than alternatives such as medication, physiotherapy, exercise and advise and (crucially) that the effects of acupuncture on chronic pain persist overtime.
What can acupuncture help with?
As well as back pain, headaches and migraines and osteoarthritis, acupuncture can help with chronic pain conditions such as fibromyalgia, neck and shoulder pain, plantar faciitis, sciatica, hip pain, endometriosis, and painful periods. It comes into its own for any pain triggered by stress or emotions.
Why acupuncture?
Pain at Brighton Acupuncture
The initial consultation will include a detailed review of the pain being experienced as well as the impact it is having on your health and wellbeing.
