Acupuncture as a Treatment for Pain
Managing Acute and Chronic Pain with AcupuncturE and CHinese Medicine
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is a holistic and time-tested practice of medicine. It views the body as an interconnected system in constant communication with the world around us. TCM has a variety of modalities such as nutritional therapy, movement therapies such as Qi Gong/ Tai Chi, massage, herbalism, and the most commonly known- Acupuncture. Read on to learn more about how acupuncture can help ease acute and chronic pain.
What is Acupuncture and How Can it Help?
Acupuncture is a technique that involves inserting very fine, sterile, single-use needles into specific points on the body. In-depth theory surrounds this modality that encompasses knowledge of anatomy, organ systems, meridians, and the energetic workings of the human form. The needles are often stimulated, twisted, or turned for the patient to receive the desired result. These needles can also be used in conjunction with an electro-stimulation unit, an herb called moxibustion, or in some cases used superficially and not inserted into the skin at all, similar to acupressure (common in styles such as Japanese Acupuncture).
Acupuncture is typically a pain-free experience, often regarded as relaxing and rejuvenating. It may elicit intense sensations related to the needles, which are more of a sensational nature rather than painful. These sensations result from the stimulation of muscles, the manipulation of Qi energy, and the body's restoration of its pathways to health. Much formal Acupuncture research has been done, but the actual mechanism of action is still unknown. Many theories explain the how and why of acupuncture, (more on this here).
The World Health Organization (WHO) has recognized Acupuncture to be an effective treatment for numerous conditions such as the ones listed below but clinically has been proven to help many more than recognized by the WHO. Often all these conditions listed also have some sort of pain component to them as well.
Psychological Conditions- Depression, Anxiety, OCD, PTSD, Insomnia
Musculoskeletal Conditions- Muscle pain, swelling, stiffness and weakness, localized traumatic injuries, sprains, strains, tendinitis, Arthritis, Fibromyalgia, Low back and/or neck strain, Osteoarthritis, Sciatic
Gastrointestinal Conditions- Irritable bowel and colitis, Acute and chronic gastritis, Gastric hyperacidity (i.e. acid reflux), Ulcers, Constipation/Diarrhea
Cardiovascular Conditions- hypertension, etc.
Neurological Conditions- Headache and migraine, Trigeminal neuralgia, Facial palsy, Paresis following stroke, Peripheral nephropathy, Meniere’s Disease, Nocturnal enuresis, Disc problems
Respiratory System Conditions- Acute sinusitis/ rhinitis, Common cold and allergies, Acute tonsillitis, Acute bronchitis, Bronchial asthma
Conditions of the Eye, Ear, Nose & Mouth- Acute conjunctivitis, Myopia (in children), Cataract (without complications), Toothaches, post-extraction pain, Gingivitis, Acute and chronic pharyngitis
Gynecological Conditions- Infertility, PMS, Dysmenorrhea/amenorrhea, Menopause
Causes of Pain In Chinese Medicine
Musculoskeletal disorders, as categorized in TCM, often stem from four main etiologies that result in pain. These include trauma, which can be caused by accidents or injuries; overuse, where excessive strain or repetitive movements strain the musculoskeletal system; aging, chronic injury, or a lack of nourishment, as the body's natural repair mechanisms may become less effective over time; and the invasion of external pathogens, excess cold, dampness, infections or inflammatory conditions, which can lead to pain and discomfort in the musculoskeletal system. Understanding these primary causes is essential for effective diagnosis and treatment of musculoskeletal issues.
Trauma- Due to accidents and injuries.
Overuse- Excessive strain or repetitive movements cause obstruction, aging, and chronic injuries that have not healed properly.
Aging/ Chronic injury/ Lack of Nourishment- Inadequate flow of Qi and Blood to an area of the body.
Invasion of External Pathogens- Such as excess cold, dampness, infections, or inflammatory conditions.
Types of Pain
Understanding pain in the context of Chinese Medicine adds a nuanced layer to its comprehension by looking deeper into the specific types of pain experienced and its underlying nature. In this traditional medical system, the nature of pain is intricately linked to concepts such as excess, deficiency, cold, and heat. These factors are pivotal in determining the underlying causes and guiding appropriate treatment strategies. Deficiency pain, for example, is associated with a lack of Qi or blood, manifesting as a dull, achy sensation. Cold and hot pain refers to the thermal nature of the discomfort. Cold pain is characterized by a constricting, sharp sensation often alleviated by warmth, while hot pain is marked by inflammation, redness, and a preference for cooling remedies.
Chinese Medicine emphasizes the importance of restoring balance within the body to alleviate pain. Treatments often involve acupuncture, herbal medicine, and lifestyle adjustments tailored to the specific imbalance detected. For excess pain, acupuncture points may be targeted to disperse stagnation, while herbal formulations can help regulate the flow of Qi. Deficiency pain may be addressed through tonifying acupuncture points and nourishing herbal prescriptions.
The holistic nature of Chinese Medicine recognizes the interconnectedness of various bodily systems and aims to address the root causes of pain rather than merely alleviating symptoms. By considering the unique qualities of pain practitioners can develop personalized and effective treatment plans to restore harmony and well-being in the individual. This approach aligns with the philosophy that optimal health is achieved when the body's vital energies are in balance, promoting not only pain relief but also overall wellness. Below are listed the main pattern differentiations of pain; there are more but these are some of the most common.
Qi and Blood Stagnation- This is a categorization of pain that is fixed stabbing, and worse with movement, and by the evenings and at night. Possible history of trauma
Qi/ Blood Deficiency- Sore aching pain worse with use. May come with digestive complaints such as loose stools, abdominal distention, and dizziness.
Wind Cold Damp Bi (Wind)- Sore aching pain, that shows up as intermittent and moving.
Wind Cold Damp Bi (Cold)- Severe fixed pain, worse with cold and better with heat.
WInd Cold Damp Bi (Damp)- Heavy sore fixed aching pain, worse with dampness, manifests with signs of numbness. May have swelling and numbness present too.
“急则治标，缓则治本-
(ji zé zhì biāo, huǎn zé zhì běn)
Treat the symptoms when they are acute; treat the root causes when they are chronic.”
Treating Acute Pain
Acute pain refers to a temporary and typically intense discomfort that arises suddenly in response to an injury, illness, or medical condition. It serves as a vital warning signal that the body uses to alert an individual to a specific problem, encouraging them to take action to address the underlying issue. This type of pain is usually time-limited and gradually diminishes as the body heals. It can result from various factors, such as surgery, trauma, burns, infections, or minor injuries. Unlike chronic pain, which persists over extended periods, acute pain is a more immediate and short-lived sensation. While it can be distressing, it often responds well to medical treatment and interventions, with the ultimate goal being the alleviation of pain and the restoration of normal, pain-free functioning.
Acupuncture is recognized as a highly effective approach for alleviating acute pain. In the case of acute pain, such as sudden injuries or intense discomfort, acupuncture can swiftly provide relief by triggering the release of endorphins, which are the body's natural painkillers. Additionally, acupuncture helps improve blood circulation and reduces inflammation, aiding in the swift recovery from acute pain conditions. The holistic nature of acupuncture not only addresses the physical aspects of pain but also considers the emotional and energetic elements, offering a well-rounded approach to pain management. This makes acupuncture a valuable and time-tested option for those seeking effective relief from acute pain without the need for medications or invasive procedures.
Utilizing other modalities such as topical and internal analgesics is important here. Massage cupping and heat therapy may also be very successful.
Treating Chronic Pain
Chronic pain is a persistent and often debilitating medical condition characterized by long-term discomfort that endures for weeks, months, or even years. Unlike acute pain, which is a normal response to injury or illness and usually subsides as the body heals, chronic pain lingers and can significantly impact a person's quality of life.
It is a complex and multifaceted issue, and its causes can vary widely, from underlying medical conditions like arthritis, fibromyalgia, or neuropathy to injuries or surgeries that result in long-lasting discomfort. Chronic pain can be both physical and emotional, affecting not only the body but also mental well-being. Managing chronic pain often requires a comprehensive and personalized approach, which may include medication, physical therapy, psychological counseling, and alternative treatments like acupuncture or mindfulness techniques. Understanding and addressing chronic pain is crucial for improving the lives of those who endure it, as it can be a persistent and challenging journey toward relief and improved well-being.
Chronic pain, which persists over an extended duration, varies in its presentation from one individual to another. Many individuals grappling with chronic pain find that their bodies have adapted to this continuous discomfort, necessitating a more comprehensive approach to restoring balance and relief. Acupuncture has emerged as a promising option for managing chronic pain. While some formal research on acupuncture's effectiveness for chronic pain has been conducted, the precise mechanism of action remains somewhat unknown. Nevertheless, countless patients have reported significant relief and improved quality of life after undergoing acupuncture treatments. The holistic nature of acupuncture, which aims to restore the body's natural flow of energy or Qi, can be particularly beneficial in addressing the multifaceted nature of chronic pain, even when the exact workings of this ancient healing art may not yet be fully understood by modern science.
“This [acupuncture] may relieve pain by releasing endorphins, the body’s natural pain-killing chemicals, and by affecting the part of the brain that governs serotonin, a brain chemical involved with mood.”
Most of the research performed with acupuncture for managing pain is done with people with low back pain, and much of this research shows very promising results. Whether you are dealing with acute or chronic pain, acupuncture can be an effective solution.