It is rare that holistic treatments upheld by centuries worth of culture and tradition get to take a place in modern medicine, but acupuncture is among them. Acupuncture is one of the safest alternative medicines available, with studies showing that if any side effects are experienced, they are very rarely dangerous, and typically only mild in nature. In one study, only 168 out of 1,422 children and teenagers experienced “mild” side effects in the course of analysis. Over the years, more and more research related to acupuncture has shown it to be an effective treatment for back pain, IBS, and other mental and physical conditions.
Treatment for Back Pain
A great deal of research has been done to compare acupuncture treatments to sham acupuncture, and results show that both provide significant results for the relief of back pain. What scientists are now saying is that although they don’t know why acupuncture works, it clearly is working, whether it is authentic or not. In other applications it is clearer that acupuncture is more than just a treatment for back pain. Other injuries and aggravations to the joints, muscles, and bones, can benefit. A National Institutes of Health study found that a reduction in pain, and an improvement in function was realized by knee arthritis patients in comparison to sham treatments and routine knee care.
Treatment for IBS
The National Institutes of Health researchers say that acupuncture is effective at treating chronic pain, but as is the case with back pain, acupuncture as a treatment for irritable bowel syndrome is similarly mixed. Real acupuncture as well as sham acupuncture are effective. Some scientists say that these results may be occurring because it is difficult to create a “sham” treatment.
Treatment for Fatigue
Acupuncture can be a good treatment for anxiety and fatigue, as the stimulation from the needles often causes the body to release natural painkillers, called endorphins, changing brain activity and boosting blood flow. Early research has shown that acupuncture relieves a wide variety of mental and intangible physical ailments, such as nausea and vomiting induced by chemotherapy, and postpartum depression. Approximately 63% of women receiving acupuncture for their postpartum depression responded well, as opposed to 44% receiving non-specific acupuncture, or massage.
While science has not come to a consensus on why acupuncture works in treating pain, both physical and mental, it acknowledges the effectiveness of the treatment. While sham treatments may have similar rates of effectiveness, it is still important to find a licensed and experienced acupuncturist, as there is a risk of infection when the methods are used incorrectly and needles are not properly sterilized. Consult your doctor before pursuing alternative treatments, and remember to choose a reputable and licensed acupuncturist. To see more, read this: pin-acupuncture.com