Acupuncture and Specific Conditions

  • Acupuncture and Arthritis

    Arthritis is a condition characterized by inflammation and pain in the joints, which can lead to stiffness and reduced mobility. There are several types of arthritis, including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and psoriatic arthritis, among others.

    Here is an article from the Arthritis Foundation about Acupuncture and Arthritis.

    Acupuncture addresses the pain and inflammation that arthritis brings about in the body by stimulating endorphins. With relief from pain, you may be able to achieve more movement and movement may reduce symptoms.

  • Acupuncture and Asthma

    Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition characterized by inflammation and narrowing of the airways, which can lead to symptoms such as wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath. It can be triggered by a variety of factors, including allergies, exercise, and stress.

  • Acupuncture and Carpal Tunnel

    Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition that causes numbness, tingling, weakness, and pain in the hand and wrist due to compression of the median nerve as it passes through the carpal tunnel in the wrist. It is often caused by repetitive motions, such as typing, using a computer mouse, or other activities that involve the hands and wrists.

  • Acupuncture and Digestive Wellness

    Digestive issues can include a range of symptoms, such as nausea, bloating, constipation, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. Acupuncture for digestive issues is based on the concept that the digestive system is closely connected to the rest of the body and that imbalances or blockages in the flow of qi can contribute to digestive symptoms.

    When specific points on the body are stimulated with needles, it is believed to activate the body's natural healing mechanisms and help restore balance and harmony within the body. In the case of digestive issues, acupuncture may help regulate the digestive system by:

    Reducing inflammation: Acupuncture may help reduce inflammation in the digestive tract, which can contribute to symptoms such as bloating, abdominal pain, and diarrhea.

    Increasing gut motility: Acupuncture may help increase the movement of food through the digestive tract, which can help alleviate constipation.

    Regulating the autonomic nervous system: Acupuncture may help regulate the autonomic nervous system, which controls many of the body's involuntary functions, including digestion.

    Several studies have suggested that acupuncture may be a helpful complementary therapy for digestive issues, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), functional dyspepsia, and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). However, more research is needed to fully understand its effectiveness and safety, and it should not be considered a substitute for medical treatment or other evidence-based therapies. People with digestive issues should talk to a healthcare provider to determine the best course of treatment for their individual needs.

  • Ear Acupuncture for Addiction

    Ear acupuncture, also known as auricular acupuncture, is a type of acupuncture that involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the ear. It is believed to help regulate the flow of energy, or qi, throughout the body and can be used to treat a variety of conditions, including addiction.

    Ear acupuncture for addiction is based on the concept that certain points on the ear correspond to specific organs and parts of the body. For example, the point located in the center of the ear is believed to correspond to the brain, and the points on the lower ear correspond to the internal organs.

    When these points are stimulated with needles, it is believed to activate the body's natural healing mechanisms and help restore balance and harmony within the body. It is thought that ear acupuncture may help reduce withdrawal symptoms, cravings, and anxiety associated with addiction, although the exact mechanisms by which it works are not fully understood.

    Several studies have suggested that ear acupuncture may be a helpful complementary therapy for addiction, particularly for people who are trying to quit smoking, opioids, or other substances. For example, a 2019 review of 35 studies found that ear acupuncture was associated with reduced withdrawal symptoms, decreased cravings, and increased abstinence rates in people with substance use disorders.

  • Acupuncture and Fibromyalgia

    Acupuncture has been studied as a potential treatment for fibromyalgia, a chronic pain condition that is characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, and tenderness in localized areas of the body. While the research on acupuncture for fibromyalgia is mixed, some studies have suggested that it may be a helpful complementary therapy for managing symptoms.

    A 2016 systematic review and meta-analysis of 22 randomized controlled trials found that acupuncture was associated with significant reductions in pain, fatigue, and sleep disturbances compared to control groups among people with fibromyalgia.

  • Acupuncture and Inflammatory Conditions

    Acupuncture has been studied as a potential treatment for various inflammatory conditions, including rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). While the research on acupuncture for these conditions is mixed, some studies have suggested that it may be a helpful complementary therapy for managing symptoms.

    Acupuncture was associated with significant reductions in pain and stiffness and improvements in physical function among people with osteoarthritis.

    Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is another condition for which acupuncture has been studied & found that acupuncture was associated with significant reductions in abdominal pain and improvements in quality of life among people with IBD.

  • Acupuncture and Insomnia

    There are many reasons why someone may experience insomnia. Some common causes include:

    Stress and anxiety

    Depression

    Chronic pain

    Certain medications

    Substance use or withdrawal

    Sleep disorders such as sleep apnea or restless leg syndrome

    Environmental factors such as noise or temperature

    Acupuncture has been studied as a potential treatment for insomnia, a sleep disorder characterized by difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking up too early. While the research on acupuncture for insomnia is mixed, some studies have suggested that it may be a helpful complementary therapy for improving sleep quality and duration.

    One theory behind acupuncture's potential effectiveness for insomnia is that it helps to regulate the body's natural circadian rhythm and promote relaxation. Acupuncture may also help to reduce stress and anxiety, which can contribute to insomnia.

  • Acupuncture and Migraines and Headaches

    Acupuncture has been studied as a potential treatment for migraines and headaches, and some studies have suggested that it may be a helpful complementary therapy for reducing the frequency and intensity of these conditions.

    One theory behind acupuncture's potential effectiveness for migraines and headaches is that it helps to stimulate the release of endorphins, which are natural pain-relieving chemicals in the body. Acupuncture may also help to regulate blood flow and reduce inflammation, both of which can contribute to migraines and headaches.

    Migraines and headaches can have many contributing factors, and it is important to identify the underlying cause(s) in order to develop an effective treatment plan. Some common triggers for migraines and headaches include:

    Stress and anxiety

    Lack of sleep or irregular sleep patterns

    Hormonal changes, such as those that occur during menstruation or menopause

    Dehydration or skipping meals

    Certain foods or food additives, such as caffeine, chocolate, and MSG

    Bright lights or loud noises

    Physical exertion or overexertion

    Environmental factors such as weather changes or strong odors

  • Acupuncture and Pain

    Acupuncture has been studied as a potential treatment for various types of pain, including chronic pain, musculoskeletal pain, and pain associated with certain medical conditions.

    One theory behind acupuncture's potential effectiveness for pain relief is that it helps to stimulate the body's natural pain-relieving mechanisms, such as the release of endorphins and other neurotransmitters. Acupuncture may also help to reduce inflammation, improve blood flow, and promote healing.

    Acupuncture treatments for pain typically involve the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body, which may be located near the site of pain or along certain energy channels in the body. The treatment is generally painless, and many people find it to be relaxing.

  • Acupuncture and Sport Injuries

    Acupuncture can be used as a complementary therapy to treat sports injuries. It can help to reduce pain and inflammation, improve circulation and mobility, and promote healing of damaged tissues.

    Some common sports injuries that may benefit from acupuncture include:

    Sprains and strains

    Tendinitis

    Runner's knee

    Tennis elbow

    Shoulder injuries

    Achilles tendonitis

    Plantar fasciitis

    Acupuncture treatments for sports injuries typically involve the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body, including around the site of the injury and along energy channels that correspond to the affected area. The treatment may also involve the use of other techniques such as cupping, moxibustion, and electro-acupuncture.

  • Acupuncture and Stress

    Acupuncture can be used in conjunction with other evidence-based therapies for stress management, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, relaxation techniques, and mindfulness meditation.

    emotionally. Some common signs and symptoms of stress include:

    Feeling anxious, irritable, or overwhelmed

    Trouble sleeping or staying asleep

    Changes in appetite or weight

    Headaches or muscle tension

    Fatigue or low energy

    Digestive issues such as nausea, diarrhea, or constipation

    Changes in libido or menstrual cycle

    Difficulty concentrating or making decisions

    Increased heart rate or blood pressure

    If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it may be a sign that you are under stress. However, it is important to note that everyone experiences stress differently, and not everyone will experience all of these symptoms.

    Acupuncture can be helpful for stress management because it is believed to help regulate the body's natural healing mechanisms and promote balance and harmony within the body. It may be particularly helpful for people who have not found relief with other therapies or who prefer non-pharmacological approaches.

  • Acupuncture and Tinnitus

    Tinnitus is a condition characterized by the perception of ringing, buzzing, or other sounds in the ears or head, without an external source. It can be a chronic and distressing condition that can negatively impact quality of life. While the exact cause of tinnitus is not fully understood, it is believed to be related to changes in the auditory system or neural pathways. Vitamin B12 deficiency may cause the demyelination of neurons in the cochlear nerve, resulting in hearing loss and tinnitus. It is important that any hearing loss be promptly addressed with a doctor.

    In this clinical study, Acupuncture was effective in reducing the loudness and severity of tinnitus and can be a useful treatment for nonpulsatile chronic tinnitus.

  • Acupuncture and Weight Management

    Acupuncture may be a helpful complementary therapy for weight loss, but it should not be considered a substitute for a healthy diet and exercise.

    Acupuncture for weight loss is based on the concept that imbalances or blockages in the flow of qi (pronounced "chee"), or vital energy, can contribute to weight gain and difficulty losing weight. When specific points on the body are stimulated with needles, it is believed to activate the body's natural healing mechanisms and help restore balance and harmony within the body.

    Several studies have suggested that acupuncture may be a helpful complementary therapy for weight loss. For example, a 2018 review of 27 randomized controlled trials found that acupuncture was associated with significant reductions in body weight, body mass index (BMI), and waist circumference compared to control groups.