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What is it used for? of Acupuncture

Acupuncture is mainly used for treating conditions in which symptoms are the main problem. For example, the pain and fatigue caused by migraine and muscle strains can be relieved using acupuncture treatment. Acupuncture encourages the release of natural pain killing substances in the body. It is sometimes used to treat the symptoms of pain associated with the following:

  • musculoskeletal pain, for example, in the back, shoulder, leg and neck,
  • arthritic and rheumatoid pain in the joints,
  • headaches and migraines,
  • trapped nerves, and
  • chronic muscle strains and sports injuries.

Research shows that acupuncture affects most of the body’s systems, not just the nervous system. It is sometimes used to treat mild symptoms of the respiratory, digestive, urinary and reproductive systems. Some evidence suggests that acupuncture can encourage the body to make disease-fighting antibodies, improve circulation and reduce the severity of allergic reactions.

It is important to remember that acupuncture will work better if you try to help yourself as well. For example, acupuncture will not improve diabetes if your diet and weight are unsuitable, or improve chest conditions if you continue to smoke.

Acupuncture may help to alleviate some of the following conditions:

  • irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and mild forms of incontinence,
  • menstrual and menopausal symptoms, including period pains and hot flushes,
  • allergies such as hay fever and some types of allergic rashes,
  • skin problems, including rashes, dermatitis and eczema,
  • sinus problems and chronic catarrh,
  • diabetes,
  • asthma,
  • chronic fatigue syndrome (ME), and
  • insomnia and depression.

Acupuncture therapy may be offered in post-operative treatment of diseases such as cancer. Evidence shows that it is most effective in treating the symptoms associated with chemotherapy treatment, including pain, vomiting and nausea.

Acupuncture may also help Parkinson’s disease, by calming the tremors and easing stiffness. Acupuncture may help Alzheimer’s disease by slowing down the deterioration of the brain cells.

Research shows that acupuncture is no more effective than placebo treatments in helping people to stop smoking or to lose weight.