Why You Should Add Acupuncture to Your Wellness Routine

For many people, acupuncture conjures images of wellness retreats: scented candles, singing bowls, and meditation. However, this holistic technique offers health benefits beyond a stress-free getaway. Pain management and improved digestive well-being are two such benefits.

At LiveWell Pain Management, interventional pain management physician Nora Taha, MD, regularly prescribes acupuncture to manage pain naturally. This month we explore acupuncture and how it can support your health and wellness.

What is acupuncture?

Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine technique that’s been practiced for thousands of years. It involves inserting small, thin needles into key areas of your skin to alleviate symptoms like pain and muscle stiffness.

4 ways acupuncture supports wellness

While inserting needles into various parts of your body to support wellness may seem strange, scientific evidence supports its efficacy for certain areas, including:

1. Pain management

Multiple studies have concluded that acupuncture is a safe and effective treatment for chronic pain. 

The exact mechanism isn’t completely understood, but a growing body of evidence suggests acupuncture helps stimulate the nervous system. This promotes the release of endorphins, which are the “feel good” chemicals that act as natural painkillers.

We use acupuncture to manage many types of pain, including arthritis, postsurgical pain, and spinal stenosis. 

2. Stress relief

Modern life is fast-paced and busy. Meeting deadlines, caring for the kids, and managing household responsibilities keep you constantly on the go, with little time to sit down and take a break. This hustle and bustle may seem necessary, but it can take a toll on your health.

Acupuncture offers an affordable, minimally invasive way to unwind. While the scientific evidence is limited, many people say it makes them feel more centered and less stressed. 

3. Better sleep

About one-third of Americans have insomnia, a common disorder that makes it difficult to fall asleep or stay asleep. Some people use sleep aids to help them doze off, but these over-the-counter drugs often have side effects. 

Acupuncture provides a safe and effective drug-free alternative. A study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine concluded that acupuncture was better than sleep aids and an effective way to treat insomnia.

4. Improved immunity

Many people take supplements, such as vitamin C and zinc, to support their immune systems, but acupuncture may be just as beneficial. Research suggests that the treatment stimulates the body’s natural immune response. 

Specifically, it helps increase the amount of white blood cells and anti-inflammatory cytokines in the bloodstream. White blood cells protect against infection, and anti-inflammatory cytokines support health by promoting healing.

If you’re interested in learning more, contact Dr. Taha today. Call the nearest LiveWell Pain Management office in Elmwood Park, Englewood, or Paramus, New Jersey, or request an appointment online.