How to Relieve Pain Through Acupuncture

Acupuncture is based on the theory that health is maintained when energy is allowed to flow unobstructed through the body. Each organ is linked to a pathway or energy meridian. These meridians are manipulated by puncturing the skin around these areas with needles, with the aim of restoring energy flow and wellness. Many believe that acupuncture can be used to treat a host of conditions, including conception difficulties, ear infections and insomnia. It has also been used to relieve pain.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Computer with Internet access for locating acupuncturists

1. Understand why acupuncture can effectively relieve pain. Western medicine theorizes that the placement of acupuncture needles at certain locations encourages the release of endorphins and opioids--potent painkillers that are naturally generated by the human body.
2. Get a clear picture of how acupuncture facilitates speedy pain management. Evidence suggests that when acupuncture points are treated with needles, it speeds up electromagnetic signals within the body. This likely has the effect of accelerating the pace at which both healing and natural painkillers are directed to the areas that need relief.
3. Define your pain. Note whether it is chronic or acute and which regions are affected.
4. Contact an acupuncturist. Visit the Acufinder Web site for a list of practitioners in your area (see Resources below). Give as much detail as possible about your pain, and tell him or her what you hope to accomplish with treatment.

Tips & Warnings

• Acupuncture treatments vary in cost from moderate through expensive. Prices will depend on the experience and qualifications of your practitioner, as well as the city in which he or she is based.
• If suffering from severe symptoms such as a prolonged and extreme headache that does not respond to over-the-counter medication, do not attempt to treat your condition with acupuncture. Your ailment could be lethal and is best addressed by a physician.
• Acupuncture is a low-risk procedure. Still, there can be grave consequences if it is performed by someone with inadequate experience. Do not attempt to treat yourself unless you've been properly trained, and make sure your practitioner is fully credentialed.
• Before you start any alternative medical technique, be aware that many have not been scientifically evaluated. Often, only limited information is available about their safety and effectiveness. Each state and each discipline has its own rules about how alternative medicine practitioners can be professionally licensed. If you decide to visit one, choose one licensed by a recognized national organization. Consult your primary health care provider about your decision first. Keep your doctor informed about the alternative medical technique you undertake.