Acupuncture has been around for thousands of years.
People all over the world invest in regular treatments because of the health benefits. They’re so convinced of the results they spend their time and money on these treatments, even if their medical insurance doesn’t cover acupuncture.
Western medicine – for the most part – has been slow to jump on the bandwagon.
Why is this?
Is acupuncture truly beneficial, or are people simply experiencing a placebo effect?
The Surprising Benefits of Acupuncture – Why You Should Give It a Try
As time progresses, we’re finding more and more benefits of acupuncture. Here are just a few reasons why you should definitely consider scheduling a session.
1. Reduce or Eliminate Back Pain
The Mayo Clinic has stated acupuncture is a good treatment option for people with lower back pain.
One of the largest acupuncture studies ever was conducted in 2007 to see if acupuncture really worked for people with back pain.
Subjects received traditional acupuncture, and others received “sham” acupuncture, or a traditional Western approach to back pain (prescription drugs, physical therapy, and some form of exercise).
The study found those who had undergone traditional acupuncture saw real relief from their symptoms. Some of them had just as good, if not better results, than those who took medication.
2. Headache and Migraine Sufferers Swear by It
Another pain-related benefit is the reduction in symptoms for migraine or chronic headache sufferers.
People who experience painful headaches and migraines had a reduction in the intensity of their pain, as well as in the time they’re incapacitated due to the pain.
In fact, in a Canadian study, migraine sufferers had the number of migraines they experienced per month reduced by half when they had regular acupuncture treatments.
3. Reduce Symptoms of Depression
One study found acupuncture can be just as effective as antidepressants.
And that’s not all – some people even experience reduced stress and anxiety.
Of course, each person is unique, and some may benefit more than others. It’s always best to undergo treatments for serious medical conditions, like depression, under the supervision of a physician or therapist.
4. You May Even Experience Allergy Relief
That’s right – allergy sufferers may be able to find relief from their symptoms with acupuncture. For people who have a difficult time finding the right allergy medication, or who don’t like taking medication in the first place, this is welcome news.
5. Struggling with Insomnia? Acupuncture Can Help
Acupuncture is said to increase the flow of lymph and energy in the body. If there is a blockage, it can lead to disease or discomfort. For many people, it can mean sleepless nights.
Freeing the body from these blockages can result in a blissful night’s sleep and increased energy the next morning.
6. Acupuncture Has Proven Helpful in Instances of Stroke
Some studies have shown patients who’ve had a stroke have:
- Found relief from spasticity and paralysis
- An improved ability to swallow and speak
- Reduced depressive episodes.
Why Modern Medical Professionals Are Now More Inclined to Recommend Acupuncture
Despite the fact this form of treatment has been in existence for centuries, Western medical professionals haven’t been quick to recommend it. Why is this?
Western medical procedures, drugs, and tools are all based on scientific evidence of effectiveness based on years of research.
It’s only been within the past few decades researchers have been willing to spend the time and money on studying acupuncture.
Wellness practitioners are glad they’ve done this, though, because it’s given them the evidence they need to feel comfortable recommending this form of treatment to their patients.
Recent studies have shown a number of physical benefits which have been achieved when patients receive regular acupuncture treatments. Those include some of the benefits listed above.
The World Health Organization has stated there’s a high possibility acupuncture is beneficial for even more, including:
- Fibromyalgia
- Whooping cough
- Post-operative recovery
- Vascular dementia
However, the evidence is not yet conclusive. More studies need to be done to see what other benefits can be derived from acupuncture treatments.
Will You Take Advantage of This Ancient Practice?
People all around the world are taking advantage and reaping the benefits of the ancient practice of acupuncture.
Will you take advantage of it, too?
If you’re curious about how this treatment might benefit you, by all means – let us know.
We’ll be happy to answer your questions and give you further scientific proof acupuncture is truly beneficial.
And we’ll explain how this form of treatment can be used in conjunction with other practices, like chiropractic and massage.
Using a variety of treatments can help your body heal even faster and make you feel so much better in the process.