For those living with chronic pain, research highlights the need to consider acupuncture. Acupuncture has been around for thousands of years and is used to treat a variety of ailments. It has passed the test of time, and is highly researched. In fact there is more high level research for acupuncture than for physiotherapy and chiropractic combined.
Chronic pain can be debilitating and severely affect a person’s quality of life. Fortunately, acupuncture has been shown to be effective in managing chronic pain. This article dives into the potential benefits, because we want people to suffer less. If you’ve never considered acupuncture for managing your chronic pain, this is for you.
Chronic pain can be caused by a variety of factors such as injury, inflammation, or nerve damage. It can also be caused by conditions such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, and migraines.
The traditional medical approach to chronic pain management typically involves the use of medications, such as opioids and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). However, these medications can have side effects and may not be effective for everyone. Over time people may need to take more and more to get relief, and the side effects can take a toll. This is where acupuncture comes in.
Acupuncture is a form of traditional Chinese medicine that involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body. These needles stimulate the body’s natural healing mechanisms, such as the release of endorphins, which are the body’s natural painkillers. Acupuncture also helps to increase blood flow to the affected area, reduce inflammation, and promote relaxation.
For those living with chronic pain, research has shown that acupuncture can be an effective treatment. A meta-analysis of 29 randomized controlled trials involving over 17,000 patients found that acupuncture was effective in treating chronic pain conditions such as osteoarthritis, chronic headache, and back pain. Another study found that acupuncture was more effective than standard care in reducing pain and improving function in patients with chronic low back pain.
Acupuncture has also been shown to be effective in treating other chronic pain conditions, such as fibromyalgia and migraines. A study of 60 patients with fibromyalgia found that those who received acupuncture had significantly lower pain scores than those who received a placebo treatment. Another study found that acupuncture was more effective than medication in reducing the frequency and intensity of migraines.
A skilled acupuncturist selects acupuncture points that stimulate the body’s ability to return to homeostasis. That is, it prompts the body to heal.
One of the benefits of acupuncture for those living with chronic pain is that it is a safe and non-invasive treatment option in the hands of a skilled acupuncturist. Unlike medications, acupuncture does not have any significant side effects, and the needles used in acupuncture are sterile and disposable.
Acupuncture can also be used in conjunction with other treatments for chronic pain. So if physical therapy or chiropractic care have been working for you, you can add it to your regime without affecting the other treatments. There are no drug interactions either, so don’t have to worry about your medication being affected. By combining these treatments, patients may be able to achieve greater pain relief and improve their overall function and quality of life.
In conclusion, acupuncture is a safe and effective treatment option for people living with chronic pain. It can help to reduce pain, improve function, and promote relaxation. If you are suffering from chronic pain, acupuncture is something to consider. As with any medical treatment, it is important to consult with your healthcare provider before beginning acupuncture treatment.
About Allied Acupuncture Gold Coast
PH: 07 5522 1691
W: www.alliedacupuncture.com.au
A: 7a / 2 Executive Dr, Burleigh Waters QLD 4220
Gold Coast acupuncture clinic Burleigh Waters. Located near the major intersection of Reedy Creek Rd and Bermuda St, near Treetops Shopping Centre and Bunnings.
We’re 15km or 20 minutes from the Gold Coast Airport and 13.4km from Surfers Paradise. Midway between the M1 Motorway and the Gold Coast Highway at Burleigh Heads.
The clinic has FREE off-street parking, wheel chair access and toilet facilities.
SAME DAY ACUPUNCTURE APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE:
Book online any time 24/7 or call our answering service Monday to Friday 9am – 5pm for same day appointments on 0755221691. Book an Initial Consultation and Treatment then look for your welcome e-mail.
An Initial Consultation and Treatment with Dr Scott Baker (Acupuncturist) involves discussing your health history, followed by a physical assessment, diagnosis and acupuncture treatment.
Diagnosis involves palpation of the problem area and possibly the abdomen and/or arms and legs. Chinese Medicine may also involve looking at your tongue and checking your pulse where indicated.
Available treatments:
- Neoclassical acupuncture using 1-3 needles
- Biomedical acupuncture (including dry needling &/or electro acupuncture)
- Balance method / distal acupuncture (Dr Tan / Master Tung style)
Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine Clinic Gold Coast
Find an AHPRA Registered Acupuncturist near you – search ‘acupuncture near me.’ Servicing:
- Burleigh Waters
- Varsity Lakes
- Reedy Creek
- Burleigh Heads
- West Burleigh
- Elanora
- Tallebudgera
- Tallebudgera Valley
- Robina
- Mermaid
- Mudgeeraba
References:
Vickers AJ, Cronin AM, Maschino AC, et al. Acupuncture for chronic pain: individual patient data meta-analysis. Arch Intern Med. 2012;172(19):1444-1453.
Cherkin DC, Sherman KJ, Avins AL, et al. A randomized trial comparing acupuncture, simulated acupuncture, and usual care for chronic low back pain. Arch Intern Med. 2009;169(9):858-866.
Martin DP, Sletten CD, Williams BA, Berger IH. Improvement in fibromyalgia symptoms with acupuncture: results of a randomized controlled trial. Mayo Clin Proc. 2006;81(6):749-757.
Linde K, Allais G, Brinkhaus B, et al. Acupuncture for migraine prophylaxis. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2009;(1):CD001218.
