Acupuncture successfully treats a range of musculo-skeletal disorders from acute traumatic injuries to chronic inflammatory degenerative conditions. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) takes a holistic approach to the treatment of these conditions. Symptoms are considered within the functional context of the whole body; an acupuncturist will assess and treat the root cause of the condition as well as the presenting symptoms. TCM treatments aim to restore balance to and provide support for the musculo-skeletal system.
A recently published article by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), recommended that acupuncture when combined with exercise is more effective than painkillers alone in the treatment of chronic pain conditions.
Acupuncture is recommended as a valuable treatment in pain management for acute and complex chronic pain.
Many cases of chronic pain are related to these conditions:
- Low back pain
- Neck and shoulder pain
- Joint pain
- Arthritis, especially osteoarthritis
- Migraine
- Multiple sclerosis
- Fibromyalgia
- Shingles
- Nerve damage (neuropathy)
Acupuncture restores the body’s balance to reduce symptoms and to alleviate pain.
- Acupuncture stimulates specific acupuncture points known to relieve pain.
- Enhances the production of chemicals in the brain (endorphins and serotonin) which relieve pain and improve mood.
- Stimulates nerves, muscles and connective tissue throughout the body to heal damaged tissue.
- Can act as an analgesic for acute pain during medical procedures (e.g. dental work).
- Can be combined with methods such as cupping and moxibustion to expel pain and restore functioning.
- Supports other forms of pain relief (such as light exercise) by relaxing nerves and muscles throughout the body.
