Acupuncture Explained: Your Guide to Holistic Well-Being

What is the practice of acupuncture?

Acupuncture is an age-old practice where trained professionals insert slender needles—slightly thicker than a human hair and considerably thinner than a sewing needle—into the skin to address a range of health concerns. These needles can be manipulated manually or activated with mild electrical currents in a technique known as electroacupuncture. With roots in traditional Chinese medicine, this practice has been around for more than 2,500 years and has gained worldwide recognition since the 1970s. Integrative, meaning, whole-person health considers all aspects of a patient's physical, emotional, spiritual, and environmental influences. It emphasizes therapies that go beyond the traditional surgeries and medications that have characterized Western medicine.

How Popular is Acupuncture?

In recent years, acupuncture has gained significant popularity as a treatment for chronic pain, headaches, nausea, anxiety, and fertility problems. A 2021 study by the World Health Organization, indicates that acupuncture is now among the most commonly utilized traditional medicine practices globally, and its acceptance is growing in the U.S.

In fact, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services are starting to cover acupuncture for chronic lower back pain for the first time.

What Conditions Can Acupuncture Help Treat?

Acupuncture is commonly used for pain relief and promoting overall well-being, contributing to the maintenance of good health, which can help prevent illness.

The World Health Organization recognizes acupuncture, and numerous clinical studies have demonstrated its effectiveness in treating various conditions, including:

• Chronic pain: conditions such as migraines, neck and back pain, tendonitis, sciatica, carpal tunnel syndrome, fibromyalgia, and rheumatoid arthritis.

• Digestive issues: including irritable bowel syndrome, colitis, gastritis, and constipation.

• Urinary and reproductive concerns: such as menstrual cramps, irregular or heavy periods, infertility, and menopausal symptoms.

• Mental health: addressing issues like depression, anxiety, stress, and insomnia.

• Managing symptoms associated with chemotherapy and radiation, like fatigue, general pain, dry mouth, peripheral neuropathy, nausea, and vomiting.

• Seasonal allergies.

• High blood pressure.

• Addictions to substances like nicotine, alcohol, and drugs.

• Overweight or obesity, when accompanied by a balanced diet and exercise.

* It is important that acupuncture be administered by licensed practitioners with appropriate training.

Understanding the Science of Acupuncture

Modern researchers are still working to discover the exact mechanisms of action behind how acupuncture works. However, there is evidence suggesting that acupuncture may influence the nervous system, impact various body tissues, and produce nonspecific effects.

• Research involving both animals and humans, including studies utilizing brain imaging techniques, has indicated that acupuncture might have an effect on the functioning of the nervous system. Additionally, acupuncture can have direct effects on the tissues at the needle insertion sites, with observable effects noted in connective tissue.

• Moreover, acupuncture can produce nonspecific effects—those that arise from elements of the treatment that are not directly related to its main intended action. These nonspecific effects may stem from the patient's faith in the treatment, the rapport between the practitioner and the patient, or other factors unrelated to the actual needle insertion. Many studies have found that the effectiveness of acupuncture is more pronounced when compared to no treatment at all than when compared to sham acupuncture techniques, such as using a device that merely touches the skin without actually penetrating it. This suggests that nonspecific effects play a significant role in the positive outcomes associated with acupuncture for pain relief and other symptoms.

• A recent study highlighted nonspecific effects in a novel manner: patients who felt pain relief during a prior acupuncture session watched a video of that same session and were instructed to visualize the treatment as it occurred again. This technique of video-guided imagery resulted in a notable reduction in pain.

Think You Can Benefit From Acupuncture?

 You won't know until you try! If you live in San Antonio and think acupuncture can benefit you, reach out for a consultation to create a personalized treatment plan.

How Acupuncture Works and What You'll Experience

Acupuncture is based on the belief that an energy known as Qi (pronounced “chee”) flows throughout the body, from head to toe. When we are in good health, this energy moves freely along pathways referred to as Channels. Each channel is thought to correspond with a particular organ system, and disruptions to the flow of this energy, caused by illness or injury, can lead to pain and other health issues. Acupuncture is employed to restore balance to the Qi and enhance the body's natural healing processes.

The is done by inserting thin needles into specific points on the skin. When these points are stimulated, they send signals through the nerves to the brain and spinal cord, prompting the brain to release substances like endorphins. These naturally occurring chemicals can diminish or neutralize the pain signals sent to the brain. The release of these "feel-good" chemicals not only contributes to physical relief but also positively affects mood, much like the benefits of exercise. An improved emotional state can significantly enhance a person's quality of life.

The number of needles used and their duration during a session vary depending on the condition being addressed. The needles are extremely fine, comparable to the thickness of a hair; thus, some patients may experience a slight prick upon insertion, while others might feel a tickle, and some may not feel anything at all.

Typically, acupuncture sessions last between 45 and 60 minutes, with patients lying on a comfortable padded table. Some individuals may experience a tingling sensation, indicating that healing energy is flowing through their body, while others may find themselves drifting off to sleep during the treatment.

Additionally, many acupuncture sessions include instruction on how to practice acupressure at home. Patients can apply pressure to specific points using their fingers, a technique known as acupressure. However, this should only be done under the guidance of a properly trained and licensed acupuncturist. It is advised to consult a licensed acupuncturist before attempting acupressure independently.

What Does Research Reveal About the Efficacy of Acupuncture for Pain Relief?

Studies indicate that acupuncture could be beneficial for various pain conditions, such as back or neck pain, knee pain linked to osteoarthritis, and postoperative pain. Additionally, it may alleviate joint discomfort related to the use of aromatase inhibitors, which are medications administered to breast cancer patients.

An analysis encompassing 20 studies with a total of 6,376 participants experiencing painful conditions like back pain, osteoarthritis, neck pain, or headaches revealed that the positive effects of acupuncture persisted for up to a year following the conclusion of treatment, except in the case of neck pain.

How Safe and Effective is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is recognized for its straightforward yet effective techniques and is safe for patients when administered properly. It addresses a variety of conditions similar to those treated by conventional medicine, but without the need for chemical drugs or invasive procedures, making it an appealing option for individuals seeking natural and safer remedies for both chronic and acute issues.

As concerns about the side effects and dangers of pharmaceuticals, including the addiction and misuse of opioid painkillers, grow, there is a rising interest in less invasive yet efficient alternative therapies like acupuncture. The future of acupuncture is especially promising and pertinent, as it has demonstrated efficacy across a broad range of health concerns. Acupuncture offers patients a way to manage numerous health challenges in a safer and more natural manner.

Do most health insurance plans provide coverage for acupuncture treatments?

Acupuncture in San Antonio can be covered by some insurance plans, so it's a great idea to check in with your insurance provider for the specifics. Keep in mind that while some clinics accept insurance, others may not, so it's helpful to clarify this before your acupuncture appointment.

Curious About Trying Acupuncture in San Antonio?

Acupuncture is not only a safe and effective treatment option for a variety of health concerns, but it also promotes overall well-being and balance within the body. With countless studies supporting its benefits, many individuals have experienced relief from pain, stress, and other ailments through this ancient practice.

If you're curious about how acupuncture can enhance your health, why not take the first step and book a session today? Discover the transformative power of acupuncture for yourself and embrace a pathway to holistic wellness!