Effectiveness of Acupuncture in Managing Acute vs. Chronic Pain

A natural solution for pain management.

Pain is something we all deal with throughout the course of our lives. But when that pain is severe or persistent, it can have a substantial negative impact on your quality of life. It may also be an indication of an underlying medical condition. Pain conditions can prevent us from participating in the workforce, enjoying leisure activities and can impact our sleep and mood. Over the last several decades, more and more Americans have turned to opioid painkillers to manage pain of all kinds. 

According to the CDC, in 2012, there were 81.3 opioids prescribed for every 100 people in the US. These medications have significant side effects, can be highly addictive, and even deadly when taken in too high a dose. Furthermore, with prolonged use, higher doses are needed; over time, they can become less and less effective as the body adapts and builds a tolerance to opioids. Luckily, painkillers aren't the only option for relief. Acupuncture has demonstrated effectiveness in treating both acute and chronic pain without the dangerous side effects of opioids, steroid injections, and other common pharmaceutical treatments. 

How can acupuncture help acute pain?

Acute pain is a sudden and intense pain that typically results from an underlying injury or medical issues, such as a broken bone or a condition like appendicitis. It can also occur following a surgery or other procedure. Sometimes the cause of acute pain isn't so clear, and medical testing may be required to get to the root of the issue. The only upside of acute pain is that it is relatively short-lived. That doesn't mean you shouldn't explore options for relief when it occurs. Through acupuncture, small needles are inserted into specific points on the skin, which can stimulate the production of endorphins. These are naturally occurring chemicals in the body that have the power to kill pain organically. 

How can acupuncture help chronic pain? 

Various conditions and circumstances can cause chronic pain, which is considered pain lasting longer than three months. Although chronic pain may not always be as severe as acute pain, its persistence can make it even more disruptive to your quality of life. Chronic pain includes common issues like frequent headaches and back pain but can also result from conditions like cancer or fibromyalgia. The release of endorphins triggered by acupuncture can alleviate chronic and acute pain. Acupuncture can also help chronic pain by allowing blood to flow more freely through the body, which, in some cases, may also address the underlying cause of the pain. Regular and ongoing acupuncture treatments may be necessary to manage chronic pain conditions.

In addition to relieving pain, the effects of acupuncture can help with mood, stress regulation, fatigue, and other factors that can accompany—and often worsen—pain of all kinds. 

If acute or chronic pain prevents you from living your life to the fullest, don't wait another day to find out how acupuncture can help. Come to our office for a consultation.