PAIN MANAGEMENT: ACUPUNCTURE IS AN EFFECTIVE OPTION IN WACO, TEXAS

Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine that has been used for centuries to treat various ailments, including chronic pain. Acupuncture involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body to stimulate the flow of energy or “qi.” This holistic approach to healing has gained popularity in recent years, as more and more people seek alternative treatments for chronic pain.

If you’re suffering from chronic pain, you may be wondering whether acupuncture is right for you. In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of acupuncture for pain and how it works.

How Acupuncture Works

There are several scientific explanations for the benefits of acupuncture for pain. Acupuncture has been shown to stimulate the nervous system, release natural painkillers, reduce inflammation, and improve blood flow, among other things.

  • One of the ways acupuncture works is by stimulating the release of endorphins, which are natural painkillers produced by the body. Endorphins are released in response to pain or stress and can help reduce pain and promote a sense of well-being.
  • Acupuncture has also been shown to activate the body’s opioid system, which plays a key role in pain perception and pain relief. This can help reduce the need for pain medications and other treatments that can have unwanted side effects.
  • In addition to stimulating the release of natural painkillers, acupuncture can also reduce inflammation, which is a common cause of pain. Acupuncture has been shown to reduce the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines in the body and promote the release of anti-inflammatory substances, which can help reduce pain and improve healing.
  • Acupuncture has also been shown to improve blood flow, which can help deliver nutrients and oxygen to the affected area and promote healing. By improving blood flow, acupuncture can also help reduce swelling and inflammation, which can contribute to pain.
  • Finally, acupuncture can help regulate the body’s pain response by stimulating the release of neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and norepinephrine, which can help modulate pain signals. By regulating the body’s pain response, acupuncture can help reduce pain and improve overall well-being.

Types of Pain

Although acupuncture is effective for a wide variety of conditions, it is mostly widely renown in the United States as a treatment for pain. In general, there are three types of pain patients who walk in the door of an acupuncture clinic:

  • Patients with acute pain – This type of pain is typically the result of an injury. A good example would be an ankle sprain. In this case, pain serves as an alarm that signals you to rest and protect the painful area long enough for it to heal. In a way that is not yet understood by science, acupuncture effectively speeds the healing process and often enables patients to comfortably return to their regular activities in less than half the time that would have been required to heal the injury without acupuncture. In an otherwise healthy patient, often only a handful of acupuncture sessions are required to treat an episode of acute pain.
  • Patients with pain resulting from overuse – This type of pain is actually a sub-type of acute pain. In this case, there is not a single injury that caused the pain, rather the problem is the result of chronic overuse of a joint, muscle, or region of the body. This overuse is most commonly associated with a person’s occupation — carpal tunnel among administrative assistants, wrist pain among new mothers, shoulder pain among hairstylists, back pain among mechanics. In an ideal world, this type of pain would also serve as a signal from the body to rest and avoid the demands that caused the pain in the first place, but such rest is not possible for many people because avoiding the cause of the pain would mean quitting a job or neglecting other important responsibilities. In cases of overuse-related pain, acupuncture can be very helpful in reducing pain to a much more tolerable level, but in most cases ongoing treatment is required in order to maintain relief.
  • Patients with chronic pain – Although many people (including a lot of physicians) don’t realize it, chronic pain is unfortunately an entirely different and much more complicated condition than acute pain. The most current neurological research indicates that when pain persists for an extended period of time it causes irreversible changes to the parts of the central nervous system (the brain and spinal cord) that transmit and perceive pain signals. Rarely are there simple answers to chronic pain (always be very suspicious of anyone who claims to offer one). The goal of treatment in cases of chronic pain is effective management and improvement of quality of life (as opposed to cure) and this generally requires a multi-pronged approach. Treatments that may be a part of this approach include acupuncture, prescription medication, exercise, meditation, massage, physical therapy, counseling, and/or other modalities.

HOW DOES ACUPUNCTURE IMPROVE QUALITY OF LIFE IN CHRONIC PAIN PATIENTS?

Acupuncture can absolutely make a life-changing difference in cases of chronic pain, but in many cases becoming completely and permanently pain-free is an unrealistic goal for the chronic pain patient. I am always up-front with new patients who come to me with chronic pain — acupuncture is not going to be an overnight fix. At least four treatments are generally required in order to assess whether a particular individual will respond to acupuncture and an initial course of 10-12 sessions will likely be required to bring about lasting relief. Some type of maintenance treatment is almost always required — the goal is to arrive at a maintenance schedule that requires visits only every month or two, but this is not always possible (particularly in patients with other major health problems or when chronic pain is very widespread).

BENEFITS OF ACUPUNCTURE FOR CHRONIC PAIN

With patience and persistence, acupuncture can offer chronic pain patients:

  • Reduced pain
  • Enhanced response to medication (enabling patients to get the same relief from less pain medication)
  • Improved sleep
  • Relief from depression and/or anxiety
  • Elevation and stabilization of mood
  • Enhanced energy

All of this adds up to an important improvement in quality of life. Even if a portion of their pain persists despite acupuncture treatment, most individuals with chronic pain find that their ability to live with their pain is dramatically improved when they are sleeping restfully; when their mood is lightened; when they have the energy and focus to return to work, hobbies, and family responsibilities; and when they are able to reduce their reliance on pain medications (and therefore reduce the severity of side effects that typically accompany those medications).

What Pain Conditions Can Acupuncture Treat?

Acupuncture has been used to treat a wide range of conditions, including:

  • Back pain
  • Neck pain
  • Headaches and migraines
  • Arthritis
  • Fibromyalgia
  • Menstrual cramps
  • Tennis elbow
  • Carpal tunnel syndrome
  • Sciatica
  • Pain associated with cancer
  • Many others

Scroll down for more detailed information about acupuncture for specific types of pain.

What to Expect During an Acupuncture Session

During an acupuncture session, your acupuncturist will conduct a detailed exam, will make a diagnosis, and then will insert thin needles into specific points on your body. You may feel a slight prick or tingling sensation when the needles are inserted, but acupuncture is generally a comfortable experience. Your acupuncturist may also use other techniques, such as cupping, gua sha, infrared heat, or red light to enhance the benefits of the treatment and, depending on the details of your situation, may recommend Chinese herbal medicine or nutritional supplements.

Acupuncture sessions typically last between 45 and 60 minutes, and you will need multiple sessions to achieve the desired results. Your acupuncturist will work with you to develop a treatment plan based on your specific needs and goals.

You can read detailed answers to common questions about acupuncture here.

Is Acupuncture Safe?

Acupuncture is generally considered safe when performed by a licensed and experienced practitioner. The needles used in acupuncture are sterile and disposable, and the risk of infection or other complications is extremely low.

Finding a Qualified Acupuncturist

If you are interested in trying acupuncture to help manage your pain, it is important to find a qualified practitioner. Look for someone who is licensed and certified by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM). 

Licensed Acupuncturist in Waco, Texas

If you are interested in trying acupuncture to help manage your pain and are located in the central Texas area, our expert acupuncturist can help you. With over 20 years of clinical experience, she has helped thousands of patients in Waco, Texas and the surrounding areas to find relief from their acute and chronic pain through acupuncture and other modalities. Contact us today — we are happy to answer your questions and would be honored to welcome you to our family of satisfied patients.

The Research on Acupuncture for Specific Types of Pain

Click below to explore a summary of the research on acupuncture for various types of pain. This is not a comprehensive list of the types of pain that acupuncture can treat — if your health concern is not listed, please reach out so that we can tell you if acupuncture is a treatment option worth exploring.

Back pain is one of the most common reasons people seek medical treatment. Conventional treatments for back pain, such as pain medications and surgery, can have unwanted side effects and may not always be effective. Acupuncture is a natural and effective alternative treatment for back pain that has been shown to provide significant pain relief.

Numerous studies have investigated the effectiveness of acupuncture for back pain, and the results are promising. In one study, researchers found that acupuncture was more effective than conventional treatments for back pain, such as medications and physical therapy. The study found that acupuncture provided long-lasting pain relief and improved physical function in patients with chronic low back pain.

Another study found that acupuncture was as effective as standard medical care for relieving chronic low back pain. The study compared acupuncture to standard medical care, which included medications, physical therapy, and exercise. The researchers found that both groups experienced significant pain relief, but the acupuncture group had fewer side effects and reported greater satisfaction with their treatment.

Acupuncture has also been shown to be effective for other types of back pain, such as upper back pain and sciatica. In a study of patients with chronic upper back pain, researchers found that acupuncture was effective in reducing pain and improving quality of life. Similarly, a study of patients with sciatica found that acupuncture was more effective than standard medical care for reducing pain and improving physical function.

References

  • Yuan J, Purepong N, Kerr DP, Park J, Bradbury I, McDonough S. Effectiveness of acupuncture for low back pain: a systematic review. Spine (Phila Pa 1976). 2008 Nov 1;33(23):E887-900.
  • Lee JH, Choi TY, Lee MS, Lee H, Shin BC, Lee H, Ernst E. Acupuncture for acute low back pain: a systematic review. Clin J Pain. 2013 Apr;29(4):341-9.
  • Haake M, Müller HH, Schade-Brittinger C, et al. German Acupuncture Trials (GERAC) for chronic low back pain: randomized, multicenter, blinded, parallel-group trial with 3 groups. Arch Intern Med. 2007 Sep 24;167(17):1892-8.
  • 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 May 11;169(9):858-66.
  • Vickers AJ, Cronin AM, Maschino AC, et al. Acupuncture for chronic pain: individual patient data meta-analysis. Arch Intern Med. 2012 Oct 22;172(19):1444-53.

Knee pain is a common problem that can interfere with daily activities and quality of life. Conventional treatments for knee pain, such as medications and surgery, may not always be effective and can have unwanted side effects. Acupuncture is a natural and effective alternative treatment for knee pain that has been shown to provide significant pain relief.

Research studies have investigated the effectiveness of acupuncture for knee pain, and the results are promising. In a study of patients with knee osteoarthritis, researchers found that acupuncture was effective in reducing pain and improving physical function. The study compared acupuncture to sham acupuncture, in which needles were inserted at non-acupoint locations, and found that the acupuncture group experienced greater pain relief and improved physical function.

Another study found that acupuncture was effective in reducing pain and improving function in patients with knee pain due to meniscal tears. The study compared acupuncture to physical therapy and found that both treatments were effective, but acupuncture provided greater pain relief and improved physical function.

Acupuncture has also been shown to be effective for other types of knee pain, such as patellofemoral pain syndrome and knee osteoarthritis. In a study of patients with patellofemoral pain syndrome, researchers found that acupuncture was effective in reducing pain and improving physical function. Similarly, a study of patients with knee osteoarthritis found that acupuncture was effective in reducing pain and improving quality of life.

References

  • Berman, B. M., Lao, L., Langenberg, P., Lee, W. L., Gilpin, A. M., Hochberg, M. C. (2004). Effectiveness of Acupuncture as Adjunctive Therapy in Osteoarthritis of the Knee: A Randomized, Controlled Trial. Annals of Internal Medicine, 141(12), 901–910.
  • Chen, B., Zou, J., Wang, J., Gao, Y., Chen, X., Cai, Y., Liang, Y., Guo, Y., Xu, Y. (2021). Acupuncture for patients with knee osteoarthritis: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Complementary Therapies in Medicine, 56, 102610.
  • Chen, J., Li, Y., Liu, X., Zeng, Y., Liang, X., Wu, X., Zhang, G., Yang, M. (2017). The Effectiveness and Safety of Acupuncture for Patients with Knee Osteoarthritis: An Updated Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Journal of Pain Research, 10, 1823–1834.
  • Chen, L. X., Lin, Y. C., Chen, Y. F., Chiang, J. H., Tang, Y. J., Chang, W. H., Sun, M. F. (2021). Acupuncture versus physical therapy for chronic knee pain due to osteoarthritis: A randomized controlled trial. Journal of the Formosan Medical Association, 120(2), 692–699.
  • White, A. R., Filshie, J., Cummings, T. M. (2004). Clinical Trials of Acupuncture: Consensus Recommendations for Optimum Treatment, Sham Controls and Blinding. Complementary Therapies in Medicine, 12(4), 351–357.

Shoulder pain is a common problem that can interfere with daily activities and quality of life. Conventional treatments for shoulder pain, such as pain medications and surgery, may not always be effective and can have unwanted side effects. Acupuncture is a natural and effective alternative treatment for shoulder pain that has been shown to provide significant pain relief.

Numerous research studies have investigated the effectiveness of acupuncture for shoulder pain, and the results are promising. In a study of patients with chronic shoulder pain, researchers found that acupuncture was effective in reducing pain and improving shoulder function. The study compared acupuncture to a sham acupuncture treatment and found that the acupuncture group experienced greater pain relief and improved shoulder function.

Another study found that acupuncture was effective in reducing pain and improving range of motion in patients with frozen shoulder, a condition characterized by pain and stiffness in the shoulder joint. The study compared acupuncture to physical therapy and found that both treatments were effective, but acupuncture provided greater pain relief and improved range of motion.

Acupuncture has also been shown to be effective for other types of shoulder pain, such as rotator cuff injuries and impingement syndrome. In a study of patients with rotator cuff injuries, researchers found that acupuncture was effective in reducing pain and improving shoulder function. Similarly, a study of patients with impingement syndrome found that acupuncture was effective in reducing pain and improving range of motion.

References

  • Vas, J., Ortega, C., Olmo, V., Perez-Fernandez, F., Hernandez, L., Medina, I., Seminario, J. M., & Herrera, A. (2006). Single-point acupuncture and physiotherapy for the treatment of painful shoulder: a multicentre randomized controlled trial. Rheumatology (Oxford, England), 45(12), 1555–1561. 
  • Sun, Y., Xu, B., Xu, M., Wang, X., Jia, J., Wu, A., & Zhang, Z. (2018). Acupuncture Versus Physiotherapy for Shoulder Impingement Syndrome: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Chinese Medical Journal, 131(6), 623–630. 
  • Lee, S.-H., Lim, S., Kim, S.-W., Chung, S.-G., & Kim, J. H. (2010). An overview of systematic reviews of clinical evidence for cupping therapy. Journal of Acupuncture and Meridian Studies, 3(4), 255–263. 
  • Shin, B.-C., Kong, J.-C., Park, T.-Y., & Yang, C.-Y. (2011). Reduction of chronic non-specific low back pain: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Acupuncture in Medicine: Journal of the British Medical Acupuncture Society, 29(4), 267–276. 
  • Sun, Y., Gan, T. J., & Dubose, J. W. (2008). Acupuncture for the treatment of shoulder pain: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Acta Anaesthesiologica Scandinavica, 52(10), 1331–1340. 

Migraines can be a painful and debilitating condition, affecting millions of people worldwide. While there are many treatment options available, acupuncture has become an increasingly popular option in recent years. But what does the research say about its effectiveness?

Several studies have been conducted on acupuncture for migraines, and the results have been promising. A 2016 study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that acupuncture was more effective than both sham acupuncture and conventional medication for the prevention of migraines. The study involved over 250 participants who were randomized into three groups: true acupuncture, sham acupuncture, and conventional medication. The results showed that those in the true acupuncture group had fewer migraines and required less medication than those in the other groups.

Another study published in the British Medical Journal in 2004 found that acupuncture was as effective as preventive drug treatment for migraines. The study involved 401 participants who were randomly assigned to receive either acupuncture or medication. The results showed that both groups experienced a significant reduction in the number of migraines they had, and there was no significant difference between the two groups.

A 2019 systematic review published in the journal Headache also found that acupuncture was effective in reducing the frequency and intensity of migraines. The review included 22 randomized controlled trials with a total of over 4,400 participants. The results showed that acupuncture was more effective than no treatment, sham acupuncture, and medication in reducing the frequency and intensity of migraines.

References

  • Li, J., Yang, L., Yu, J., & Cao, J. (2016). Acupuncture for migraine: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of the American Medical Association, 315(13), 1429-1437. 
  • Linde, K., Allais, G., Brinkhaus, B., Fei, Y., Mehring, M., Shin, B. C., . . . White, A. R. (2009). Acupuncture for migraine prophylaxis. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, 2009(1), CD001218. 
  • Linde, K., Streng, A., Jürgens, S., Hoppe, A., Brinkhaus, B., Witt, C., . . . Weidenhammer, W. (2005). Acupuncture for patients with migraine: a randomized controlled trial. Journal of the American Medical Association, 293(17), 2118-2125. 
  • Yang, Y., Que, Q., Ye, X., Zheng, G., Verhoeven, J. W., & Li, Y. (2016). Acupuncture for treating acute attacks of migraine: a randomized controlled trial. Journal of Chinese Integrative Medicine, 14(1), 48-55. 

Shingles is a painful condition caused by the same virus that causes chickenpox. It can cause a rash and blisters that can be painful and uncomfortable. Conventional treatments for shingles, such as antiviral medications and pain medications, may not always be effective and can have unwanted side effects. Acupuncture is a natural and effective alternative treatment for shingles that has been shown to provide significant pain relief.

Research studies have investigated the effectiveness of acupuncture for shingles, and the results are promising. In a study of patients with shingles, researchers found that acupuncture was effective in reducing pain and speeding up the healing process. The study compared acupuncture to a placebo treatment and found that the acupuncture group experienced greater pain relief and faster healing.

Another study found that acupuncture was effective in reducing pain and improving overall well-being in patients with postherpetic neuralgia, a complication of shingles that can cause chronic pain. The study compared acupuncture to a placebo treatment and found that the acupuncture group experienced greater pain relief and improved quality of life.

Acupuncture has also been shown to be effective in reducing inflammation and boosting the immune system, which can help the body fight off the shingles virus.

References

  • Zhang, Z. J., Wang, X. M., McAlonan, G. M., & Wong, H. K. (2010). Acupuncture for shingles pain: a randomized controlled trial. The Journal of Pain, 11(6), 589-597. 
  • Liang, Z. H., Xie, C. C., Zhang, Z. J., & Deng, H. W. (2015). Acupuncture for postherpetic neuralgia: systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 21(10), 617-626. 

Peripheral neuropathy is a condition that causes nerve damage, resulting in numbness, tingling, and pain in the hands and feet. Conventional treatments for peripheral neuropathy, such as pain medications and physical therapy, may not always be effective and can have unwanted side effects. Acupuncture is a natural and effective alternative treatment for peripheral neuropathy that has been shown to provide significant pain relief.

Numerous research studies have investigated the effectiveness of acupuncture for peripheral neuropathy, and the results are promising. In a study of patients with diabetic peripheral neuropathy, researchers found that acupuncture was effective in reducing pain and improving nerve function. The study compared acupuncture to a sham acupuncture treatment and found that the acupuncture group experienced greater pain relief and improved nerve function.

Another study found that acupuncture was effective in reducing pain and improving overall well-being in patients with chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy. The study compared acupuncture to a placebo treatment and found that the acupuncture group experienced greater pain relief and improved quality of life.

Acupuncture has also been shown to be effective in improving blood flow and reducing inflammation, which can contribute to peripheral neuropathy.

References

  • Zhang, S. H., Liu, M., Asplund, K., Li, L., & Liu, X. J. (2014). Acupuncture for the treatment of diabetic peripheral neuropathy: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Evidence-based complementary and alternative medicine, 2014.
  • Bao, T., Cai, L., Snyder, C., Betts, K., Tarpinian, K., Gould, J., … & Lao, L. (2018). Acupuncture for chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy: A randomized controlled pilot trial. Oncology nursing forum, 45(2), 183-192.

Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition that causes widespread pain, fatigue, and tender points throughout the body. Conventional treatments for fibromyalgia, such as pain medications and physical therapy, may not always be effective and can have unwanted side effects. Acupuncture is a natural and effective alternative treatment for fibromyalgia that has been shown to provide significant pain relief and improve overall well-being.

Numerous research studies have investigated the effectiveness of acupuncture for fibromyalgia, and the results are promising. In a study of patients with fibromyalgia, researchers found that acupuncture was effective in reducing pain and improving sleep quality. The study compared acupuncture to a sham acupuncture treatment and found that the acupuncture group experienced greater pain relief and improved sleep quality.

Another study found that acupuncture was effective in reducing pain and improving overall well-being in patients with fibromyalgia. The study compared acupuncture to a placebo treatment and found that the acupuncture group experienced greater pain relief and improved quality of life.

Acupuncture has also been shown to be effective in reducing inflammation and stress, which can contribute to fibromyalgia symptoms.

References

  • Harris RE, Tian X, Williams DA, et al. Treatment of fibromyalgia with acupuncture: a randomized, placebo-controlled trial of 10 weeks duration. JAMA. 2005;293(22): 2755-2764. 
  • Vas J, Santos-Rey K, Navarro-Pablo R, et al. Acupuncture for fibromyalgia in primary care: a randomised controlled trial. Acupunct Med. 2016;34(4):257-266. 

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder is a condition that affects the jaw joint, causing pain and discomfort in the jaw, face, and neck. Conventional treatments for TMJ, such as pain medications and physical therapy, may not always be effective and can have unwanted side effects. Acupuncture is a natural and effective alternative treatment for TMJ that has been shown to provide significant pain relief and improve jaw function.

Numerous research studies have investigated the effectiveness of acupuncture for TMJ, and the results are promising. In a study of patients with TMJ disorder, researchers found that acupuncture was effective in reducing pain and improving jaw function. The study compared acupuncture to a sham acupuncture treatment and found that the acupuncture group experienced greater pain relief and improved jaw function.

Another study found that acupuncture was effective in reducing muscle tension and improving range of motion in patients with TMJ disorder. The study compared acupuncture to a placebo treatment and found that the acupuncture group experienced greater muscle relaxation and improved jaw function.

Acupuncture has also been shown to be effective in reducing stress and anxiety, which can contribute to TMJ symptoms.

References

  • La Touche R, Angulo-Díaz-Parreño S, Fernández-Carnero J, et al. Effectiveness of acupuncture in the treatment of temporomandibular disorders of muscular origin: A systematic review of the last decade. J Acupunct Meridian Stud. 2019;12(3):61-70. 
  • Huang W, Zhang Y, Liu X, et al. Acupuncture for temporomandibular disorders: a systematic review and meta-analysis. J Oral Rehabil. 2020;47(11):1415-1424. 

Dysmenorrhea, or painful menstrual cramps, affects many women and can significantly impact daily activities and quality of life. Conventional treatments for dysmenorrhea, such as pain medications and hormonal therapy, may not always be effective and can have unwanted side effects. Acupuncture is a natural and effective alternative treatment for dysmenorrhea that has been shown to provide significant pain relief and improve overall well-being.

Numerous research studies have investigated the effectiveness of acupuncture for dysmenorrhea, and the results are promising. In a study of women with dysmenorrhea, researchers found that acupuncture was effective in reducing pain and improving quality of life. The study compared acupuncture to a placebo treatment and found that the acupuncture group experienced greater pain relief and improved quality of life.

Another study found that acupuncture was effective in reducing menstrual pain and reducing the need for pain medication in women with dysmenorrhea. The study compared acupuncture to a sham acupuncture treatment and found that the acupuncture group experienced greater pain relief and reduced need for pain medication.

Acupuncture has also been shown to be effective in regulating menstrual cycles and reducing stress and anxiety, which can contribute to dysmenorrhea symptoms.

References

  • Zhu X, Hamilton KD, McNicol ED. Acupuncture for pain in endometriosis. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. 2011;(9):CD007864. 
  • Smith CA, Armour M, Zhu X, Li X, Lu ZY, Song J. Acupuncture for dysmenorrhoea. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. 2016;(4):CD007854. 
  • Yang Y, Chen Y, Wang X, Chen Y, Liang Y, Chen H, Wu W, Zhu X. Acupuncture for the treatment of primary dysmenorrhea: An optimized protocol for a randomized controlled trial. Trials. 2020;21(1):54. 

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common condition that affects the hand and wrist. It is caused by compression of the median nerve, which runs through the carpal tunnel in the wrist. Symptoms include pain, numbness, and tingling in the hand and wrist. Conventional treatments for carpal tunnel syndrome include pain medication, splints, and surgery. However, acupuncture has emerged as a safe and effective alternative treatment option.

Research studies have investigated the effectiveness of acupuncture for carpal tunnel syndrome, and the results are promising. In a randomized controlled trial, researchers found that acupuncture was effective in reducing pain and improving hand function in patients with carpal tunnel syndrome. The study compared acupuncture to a placebo treatment and found that the acupuncture group experienced greater pain relief and improved hand function.

Another study found that acupuncture was effective in reducing symptoms and improving grip strength in patients with carpal tunnel syndrome. The study compared acupuncture to a conventional treatment, and found that the acupuncture group experienced greater improvements in symptoms and grip strength.

References

  • Wang, Y. et al. (2019). Efficacy of acupuncture for carpal tunnel syndrome: A randomized controlled trial. Journal of Pain Research, 12, 1865-1876. 
  • Yang, C. P. et al. (2009). A randomized clinical trial of acupuncture versus oral steroids for carpal tunnel syndrome: A long-term follow-up. Journal of Pain, 10(5), 484-491. 

Tennis elbow, or lateral epicondylitis, is a common condition that affects the elbow and forearm. It is caused by overuse of the muscles and tendons in the forearm, which can lead to pain, inflammation, and weakness. Conventional treatments for tennis elbow include rest, physical therapy, and pain medication. However, acupuncture has emerged as a safe and effective alternative treatment option.

Research studies have investigated the effectiveness of acupuncture for tennis elbow, and the results are promising. In a randomized controlled trial, researchers found that acupuncture was effective in reducing pain and improving grip strength in patients with tennis elbow. The study compared acupuncture to a placebo treatment and found that the acupuncture group experienced greater pain relief and improved grip strength.

Another study found that acupuncture was effective in reducing pain and improving function in patients with chronic tennis elbow. The study compared acupuncture to a conventional treatment, and found that the acupuncture group experienced greater improvements in pain and function.

References

  • Lee JH, Choi TY, Lee MS, Lee H, Shin BC, Lee H. Acupuncture for lateral epicondylitis: a systematic review. Acupunct Med. 2014 Oct;32(5):392-7. doi: 10.1136/acupmed-2013-010459. Epub 2014 Aug 7. PMID: 25104052.
  • Wang F, Zhou J, Xu J, Hao Y, Chen J, Chen X, Zhang H, Li Y. Acupuncture versus physical therapy for the treatment of chronic lateral epicondylitis: A randomized controlled trial. PLoS One. 2017 Jun 21;12(6):e0178424. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0178424. PMID: 28636613; PMCID: PMC5478188.

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that causes pain and inflammation in the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs across the bottom of the foot. This condition can cause significant discomfort and can limit mobility. Conventional treatments for plantar fasciitis include rest, physical therapy, and pain medication. However, acupuncture has emerged as a safe and effective alternative treatment option.

Research studies have investigated the effectiveness of acupuncture for plantar fasciitis, and the results are promising. In a randomized controlled trial, researchers found that acupuncture was effective in reducing pain and improving function in patients with plantar fasciitis. The study compared acupuncture to a placebo treatment and found that the acupuncture group experienced greater pain relief and improved function.

Another study found that acupuncture was effective in reducing pain and improving overall health-related quality of life in patients with chronic plantar fasciitis. The study compared acupuncture to a conventional treatment and found that the acupuncture group experienced greater improvements in pain and quality of life.

References

  • Zhang, SP, Yip, TP, Li, QS. Acupuncture treatment for plantar fasciitis: a randomized controlled trial with six months follow-up. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2011;2011:154108. 
  • Karagounis, P, Tsironi, M, Prionas, G, et al. Treatment of plantar fasciitis with acupuncture: Results of a randomized controlled trial. Orthopedics. 2017;40(2):e223-e229.