Acupuncture

Understanding Acupuncture

Although it has ancient roots in Eastern medicine, it is now commonly used by physiotherapists and chiropractors to help reduce pain and stimulate healing.

Acupuncture works by stimulating the release of natural pain-relieving chemicals in the body, including a combination of endorphins and neurotransmitters. The release of these chemicals triggers the pain receptors in the brain to experience less pain.

Acupuncture also stimulates blood flow to an injured area, helping to speed up the healing process…naturally.

By releasing natural painkillers into the body, acupuncture needles help short-circuit the loop of pain and stiffness from anticipating pain. This works in the following ways:

Endorphin release.

Endorphins are happy chemicals that are naturally released by the body. They are typically released during physical activity, especially during cardio exercise/activities, and are the reason behind what is often referred to as “runner’s high,” the euphoric-like experience that people get when running long distances. Acupuncture will also stimulate the release of these mood-boosting and pain-suppressing opioid neuropeptides. When your nervous system releases endorphins you automatically begin to experience less pain, and this can help alleviate pain from muscle tension, too. Just as importantly, the areas that were “taking up” the slack by working harder to support the original source of stiffness will also be relaxed.

Neurohormone production.

In addition to endorphins, another way to alleviate pain naturally is by stimulating neurotransmitters and hormone production. These chemicals are directly related to your mood and perception of different environmental factors and could be the reason why you handle stress differently from one day to the next. The stimulation of neurohormone production puts your body in a better situation to handle muscle tension more effectively. Substances like dopamine are released by your body’s glandular system through the strategic placement of acupuncture needles. The needles stimulate the glands so that their secretion is regulated in a more pain-suppressing manner. Dopamine also plays a role in relieving muscular and emotional tension, further enhancing the effects of acupuncture treatment.

Acupuncture is an effective method for alleviating acute pain from injury, chronic pain from arthritis or muscle tension, as well as acute pain from a pinched nerve. Contact PhysioPlus Health Group for an appointment and to find out how this form of treatment may be able to support your optimal well-being.

Is acupuncture covered by my insurance plan?

Yes, acupuncture is covered by insurance plans. It will be invoiced under the license of the treating therapist. If you have extended health insurance for physiotherapy, chiropractic, massage, or osteopath, it should be covered by your plan. We recommend you check with your insurance provider about the details of your coverage.

REQUEST AN ACUPUNCTURE APPOINTMENT TODAY!

Contact PhysioPlus Health Group for an appointment and to find out how this form of treatment may be able to support your optimal well-being.