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How Does Acupuncture Affect the Body?

December 19, 2022

Filed under: Uncategorized — holisticmedicine @ 2:10 pm
Hands inserting medical acupuncture needles into patient’s back

To many people, acupuncture might seem like an unconventional and somewhat intimidating treatment. In reality, though, it has a well-established track record of helping patients find relief from a range of problems, including anxiety, chronic pain, and more. How does it work within the body to produce such remarkable results? Read on below to learn the answer.

Acupuncture and the Nervous System

Your nervous system is a highly complex network of cells within your body that coordinates your actions and sensory information. Its various parts communicate with each other to help you move, breathe, and experience the world around you.

The nervous system has two main components — the peripheral nervous system, and the central nervous system. It is believed that acupuncture works mostly with the central nervous system, which includes your brain and spinal cord. When needles are strategically inserted into your body at specific points, it causes reactions in this critical part of your body.

What Exactly Does Acupuncture Do?

So, what specific reactions occur when acupuncture needles stimulate the central nervous system? Basically, the therapy instigates the release of certain chemicals within your body. For example, it might cause an increase in endorphins. Endorphins are natural painkillers that the body produces in response to discomfort, injury, and even exercise. Acupuncture is another proven way to increase endorphins and help patients find relief from chronic pain, such as that caused by arthritis.

Additionally, acupuncture may interact with the brain in noteworthy ways. Numerous studies have shown it to have a positive impact on mental health. For example, it is often associated with a decrease in symptoms of anxiety.

Acupuncture can do even more. In some cases, it is used to influence the actions of your autonomic nervous system, which is a division of your peripheral nervous system that controls things you do not have to think about, such as your breathing and heart rate. It is also commonly used to treat high blood pressure.

Can Acupuncture Help You?

Acupuncture is an effective therapy for most people, but it would be wise to consult with a qualified physician before you commit to anything. Also, keep in mind that there are different types of acupuncture. Rather than going to a traditional provider, seek out someone who offers medical acupuncture, which is focused on the science of the human body. Traditional acupuncture, while it might feel good and be relaxing, stems from ancient mystic beliefs.

Acupuncture can stimulate your body’s natural healing processes and may help you find relief from chronic and burdensome problems. Speaking with a highly trained doctor can help you determine whether this therapy should be incorporated into your overall wellness regimen.

Meet Dr. Murphy

Dr. Derek Murphy is a skilled holistic Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine in the Orlando area. He seeks to help patients achieve improved health through the most natural, minimally invasive means possible, which is why medical acupuncture is one of the many services available in our practice. To learn more about Dr. Murphy and how our team may be able to serve you, contact us at 407-319-7541.

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