Benefits of Acupuncture

Byline: Crystal Anderson, California Mobile Acupuncture

Did you know that 30-40% of the population are in serious pain at any given time? Often most doctors recommend surgery or pain killers, however, 1 in 3 regret having undergone the knife, and 1 in 4 struggle with addiction after being prescribed pain killers. With statistics like these, a number of people are turning to more natural remedies, acupuncture being a front runner. 

While an estimated 3 million Americans receive acupuncture each year, with chronic pain being the most common presentation, you may be asking yourself ‘Can acupuncture help me?’. The short answer is yes. The long answer is absolutely. Acupuncture effectively helps to ease chronic low-back pain, neck pain, and osteoarthritis/knee pain. It can also help reduce the frequency of tension headaches and prevent migraine headaches. Scientists are also finding that acupuncture can reduce the frequency of hot flashes associated with menopause and that it can reduce pain and discomfort that may accompany chemotherapy. A recent study expressed promise that acupuncture could be better than most pain medications. 

When administered by a Licensed Acupuncturist, this natural therapy is safe and well worth the time and investment.  Is it a quick fix? It can be, if treatment is sought right away, however most conditions require a series of treatments with some relief typically found in the first treatment and very noticeable change brought about with a handful of treatments, depending on the condition. Good acupuncturists will address your health as a whole to achieve the very best result over time. In addition to acupuncture, a balanced diet, and a consistent lifestyle significantly aid in the healing process.

So how does it work? While researchers don’t know the exact mechanism by which acupuncture helps the body heal, they do know that it affects the central nervous system and causes the release of various bio chemicals into the muscles, brain and spinal cord. This encourages the body's natural healing abilities.

While pain, discomfort, hormonal imbalance and preventative healthcare may be more obvious reasons people get acupuncture, most people are unaware that it can also be effective cosmetically. By inserting fine needles in certain points it can relax commonly used muscles in your face and neck that have, over time, created deep wrinkles and fine lines. The effect is a smoother, more even complexion, reduced appearance of wrinkles and fine lines and an increased production of collagen and elastin. In combination with acupuncture for internal health a large number of aging women have chosen this natural anti-aging route in lieu of more toxic or invasive procedures, and with great success! 

So whether you have pain, trouble sleeping, low energy or would just like to have a natural facelift, acupuncture can be a great alternative to mainstream therapeutics.

Crystal Anderson is the founder of California Mobile Acupuncture, the leading provider for at-home care in Orange County.. For more information, visit: /www.californiamobileacu.com