Can acupuncture help with pain?

Acupuncture has been used for centuries as a treatment for pain, but is it actually effective? Research from the University of York and other high-quality clinical trials suggests that acupuncture can do more than just provide a placebo effect. It can enhance standard medical care, reduce pain severity and even lower reliance on pain medications.

If you are dealing with chronic pain, you may be wondering whether acupuncture is worth considering. Let’s break down what the latest research tells us about acupuncture and pain relief.

What does the research say?

A large-scale review of 29 clinical trials examined the impact of acupuncture on chronic pain conditions, including neck pain, lower back pain, headaches, migraines and osteoarthritis. These trials involved around 18,000 patients, making it one of the most comprehensive studies on acupuncture and pain management.

The findings showed that adding acupuncture to standard medical care was significantly more effective than medical care alone. Patients receiving acupuncture:

✔ Had less severe neck and lower back pain

✔ Reported reduced osteoarthritis pain and disability

✔ Were less reliant on anti-inflammatory medication

This supports the idea that acupuncture is more than just a placebo. It provides real, measurable pain relief and can complement existing treatments.

How does acupuncture work for pain?

Acupuncture involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body. While the exact mechanisms are still being explored, research suggests that acupuncture influences pain in several key ways:

✔ Stimulating the nervous system. Acupuncture triggers the release of endorphins (the body’s natural painkillers) and affects neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, which help regulate pain and mood.

✔ Reducing inflammation. Studies indicate that acupuncture can lower pro-inflammatory markers, helping reduce swelling and discomfort in conditions like osteoarthritis.

✔ Improving blood flow. Needling certain points increases circulation to affected areas, which can aid in healing and muscle relaxation.

✔ Modulating pain signals. Acupuncture is believed to influence how pain is processed in the brain, potentially reducing the intensity of chronic pain signals.

Should you try acupuncture for pain?

If you are dealing with chronic pain conditions like back pain or osteoarthritis, acupuncture could be a beneficial addition to your treatment plan. However, it is important to:

✔ Choose a qualified practitioner. Look for a licensed acupuncturist or a healthcare provider trained in acupuncture.

✔ Be patient with results. Some people feel relief after one session, while others need multiple sessions to see significant improvement.

✔ Combine with other treatments. Acupuncture works best alongside other medical care, including exercise, physiotherapy and lifestyle changes.

Final thoughts

The idea that acupuncture is purely a placebo is not supported by current research. High-quality studies show that acupuncture can enhance traditional pain management, reduce symptoms and improve quality of life for those with chronic pain.

While it may not be a standalone cure, acupuncture is a safe, effective and cost-efficient option worth considering as part of a well-rounded pain relief strategy.

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