It wasn’t long ago that acupuncture—the ancient practice of strategically piercing the skin with thin needles—was considered far too “alternative” for Western medicine. Fast-forward to 2020: Western medicine recognizes that acupuncture treats ailments and diseases and helps patients improve physically and emotionally. UCLA researchers found acupuncture significantly lowers stress and improves heart function in the very sickest heart failure patients (WebMD.com).
What is acupuncture?
Acupuncture is an ancient art developed well over 3,500 years ago in China. This healing practice treats a wide variety of ailments and diseases, both physical and emotional. It is a holistic practice that engages the body’s natural healing response to return the patient to their most optimal state of being. Acupuncture is a safe, cost-effective, evidence-based practice endorsed by the World Health Organization.
How does it work?
Acupuncture works by stimulating the body’s ability to heal itself. When the needles are inserted, the stimulation produces a message that signals the brain to release neurotransmitters such as serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine, just to name a few. Some of these neurotransmitters act as natural pain-relieving chemicals, while others turn off your body’s fight or flight response and turn on your rest and digest. What these chemicals all have in common is their ability to return your body and mind to their most optimal state where you can enjoy life from a place of balance
What can acupuncture help me with?
Research has shown acupuncture’s positive effects on the nervous system, endocrine and immune systems, cardiovascular system, and digestive system. Through stimulating these systems, acupuncture can help chronic pain, digestive disorders, negative side effects of chemotherapy, reproductive disorders, psychological and emotional disorders, addictions, allergies, high blood pressure, and overweight and obesity when used in an overall treatment plan.
2020 is the year to make your health a priority. Connect with Shannon and Patrick to answer your questions about acupuncture and discuss if it’s right for you. Call 330-242-5633 to set up your free consultation.
