5 Reasons to Get Acupuncture
Acupuncture utilizes hair-thin needles in specific places on your body to treat a wide variety of diseases and conditions. It’s thought to work by correcting imbalances and promoting the body’s release of pain-relieving chemicals.
What happens during an acupuncture treatment?
Your acupuncturist will first perform a physical examination to determine which reactive points to use. A treatment plan will be devised, and you’ll be able to ask questions about what to expect during your sessions.
During your treatment, your acupuncturist will use extremely thin needles, and when they’re inserted, they usually don’t hurt. If you do feel a sensation, it might be feel like tingling or a small pinch, but it goes away quickly. The needles are placed at varying depths, and after they’re stimulated, they’ll typically be left in place for anywhere from 5-20 minutes.
For the next treatment, your acupuncturist may use different points and techniques to help stimulate new sources of healing.
How many treatments would be needed?
The number of treatments you’ll receive depends on your individual needs. You may feel much better after the first treatment, but if you have a chronic health issue, you may need treatment once or twice a week for several months. For acute, short-term problems, you may need 8 to 10 visits.
What are some reasons to get acupuncture?
Headaches
Acupuncture can be an effective treatment for migraines or chronic headaches. In one study, people who received acupuncture reported a reduction in the frequency and intensity of their migraines. Three months after treatment, they were still reporting the same benefits.
Depression
Once-weekly acupuncture sessions continued for three months can help relieve symptoms of depression. It’s thought to work by regulating mood-controlling neurotransmitters in your brain.
Back pain
Acupuncture can help relieve chronic back pain, possibly by triggering the release of chemicals into the muscles, spinal cord, and brain. These chemicals are thought to change the way we experience pain and/or promote a sense of well-being.
Seasonal allergies
Acupuncture can help relieve the symptoms of seasonal allergies, allowing patients to use antihistamines less often.
Menopause
Patients who experience hot flashes related to menopause have had fewer of these episodes for up to three months after acupuncture treatment. The hot flashes were also less intense afterward.
If you’d like to find out more about acupuncture and how it can help with your health-related issues, contact us today for an evaluation with Park Avenue Medical Professionals. We provide integrated medical and health care, and our expert specialists will work together to help you get ultimate relief from your symptoms. Fill out the form on this page to request an appointment or call 212.427.2000 to learn more.
