Acupuncture for Neck Pain
A study conducted by the Tzu Chi University in
Taiwan demonstrated that cupping, a modality of Traditional Chinese Medicine,
provided significant pain relief for chronic neck and shoulder pain. The
participants in the study received a total of four cupping therapy treatments
that lasted 10 to 15 minutes. They also received acupuncture and massage. The
effects were measured using skin surface temperatures, blood pressures and pain
intensity levels of each participant. Overall, the surface temperatures increased,
indicating better blood flow to the area, while the blood pressure measurements
and the pain intensity levels decreased. This study confirms acupuncture and
specifically, cupping therapy, can be provide effective pain relief without the
harsh side effects of pharmaceuticals.
Neck pain is one of the most widely noted
ailments in the world. Chronic neck pain is generally a type of musculoskeletal
pain that occurs most commonly in middle and older aged people. This type of
pain can be quite debilitating and it can affect a person’s life in multiple
ways. Neck pain can prevent people from exercising, getting proper rest and
even interacting with friends and family. The effects of chronic neck pain can
be physical, mental and emotional.
In the past, neck pain has been treated with
over-the-counter painkillers or prescription painkillers, plus
anti-inflammatories. However, there is currently a severe opioid crisis facing
the United States and because of this, prescription opioids and the doctors
that prescribe them are under scrutiny. Also, over-the-counter painkillers,
like ibuprofen, are known to deteriorate the lining of the gastrointestinal
tract increasing ailments such as acid reflux and ulcers. As an alternative,
acupuncture and cupping are highly recommended, as they are natural and have
virtually no side effects.
The toolbox of the TCM practitioner is filled
with many items that allow for holistic treatments of the patients. Acupuncture
is one of the tools that works very well at decreasing and eliminating chronic
neck pain. But another modality has recently come into the spotlight and it is
known as cupping therapy.
Cupping therapy is a very old technique.
Traditionally, a flame is inserted into a glass cup, drawing out the oxygen and
creating negative pressure. The cup is quickly placed on the area affected to
form suction. The sucking action of the cups draws out toxic blood and waste
products, while drawing in oxygen-rich blood. The oxygen-rich blood being drawn
into the muscles allows for faster healing of the affected area. The increased
blood flow into the area also allows for the tissues to heal and become less
tense. When cupping is added to regular acupuncture treatments, the results can
be amazing. Acupuncture also stimulates
blood flow throughout the body, while reducing muscle spasms and decreasing
pain.
Many people hold stress and tension in their
necks, shoulders and upper backs. By incorporating TCM techniques into a
regular wellness plan, chronic neck pain, stress and tension can all be
relieved and managed. Always remember to seek out a properly trained and fully
licensed acupuncturist when needing healing. The results that an acupuncturist
can provide may just change your life.
Bishara Wilson, L.Ac., MSTOM, C.SMA
888.375.5444
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