What Is Medical Acupuncture? How Can It Help You?

When most people think of acupuncture, they think of ancient Chinese customs. But did you know that this millenniums-old practice has a valuable place in modern holistic medicine? Medical acupuncture is similar to its traditional counterpart in many ways, but it has a heavier focus on evidence-based scientific research. Let’s talk about what medical acupuncture is and how it may be able to play a role on your journey toward wellness.

What Is Medical Acupuncture?

Medical acupuncture involves the insertion of tiny needles into the skin at strategic locations. The needles stimulate certain nerve fibers, which in turn send specific signals to the brain. This chain reaction results in the release of chemicals that promote a sense of relaxation and pain relief. Research has demonstrated that acupuncture can provide a whole-body pain relief effect as well as pain relief at specific locations. It is also associated with a general feeling of well-being. There are virtually no side effects, making it one of the safest ways to address pain and anxiety.

What Conditions Can Medical Acupuncture Help With?

Medical acupuncture has many applications. It is suitable both for patients who are interested in upkeeping their overall health as well as those who are seeking relief from specific symptoms. It might be able to help you if you struggle with any of the following conditions:

• Chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting
• Migraines and headaches
• Low back pain
• Neck pain
• Osteoarthritis
• Menstrual cramps
• Stress and anxiety
• Fibromyalgia

Of course, you should consult with a qualified medical acupuncture provider before you commit to anything. After they learn about your overall health and goals, they can let you know whether acupuncture is a fit for your circumstances.

What Can You Expect with Medical Acupuncture?

Some people hesitate to try medical acupuncture because they are squeamish around needles. However, there is really no reason to worry. The needles are extremely thin; in fact, most of them can fit inside the hollow portion of a standard blood-drawing needle. Some patients feel a slight pinch as needles are inserted, but overall, the treatment is comfortable.

You also don’t need to worry about infection. Medical acupuncture needles are securely stored before use, and they are all single-use, so the needles that will go into your body have never been inside someone else.

A typical acupuncture session may last 20 minutes to an hour or longer. Some patients experience significant relief after just one treatment, while others notice the best results after several visits. Once your condition is stabilized, periodic acupuncture sessions can help you to keep feeling your best.

Acupuncture may be thousands of years old, but it remains a useful part of modern medicine. For many people, it is an important part of their wellness routine. Why not give it a try? You might be surprised by how effective it is!

Meet the Doctor

Dr. Derek Murphy is a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine who specializes in providing holistic care to patients throughout the greater Orlando, FL area. Medical acupuncture is one of the many services that he is proud to provide. To learn more about he may be able to help you enjoy improved overall health, contact our office at 407-319-7541.