Muscle and Joint pain
Acupuncture has proven to be an effective therapy for treating Musculoskeletal problems such as lower back, neck, shoulder and knee pains, sciatica, etc.
The effectiveness of acupuncture comes from its broad-based approach where the diagnosis and treatment includes both local and constitutional aspects. An Acupuncturist will always view the patient as a whole, as well as diagnosing the injury or area of pain directly.
Musculoskeletal problems are some of the most frequently seen health problems in acupuncture clinics. Pain and reduced mobility seems to be the main complaint.
Acupuncture regards most Musculoskeletal problems as an obstruction of energy (Chi 0r Qi). This leads to pain, soreness, swelling, and stiffness in muscles and joints. If the obstruction is not cleared the normal function of the whole body can be affected.
Reduced function due to obstruction of Qi may affect all ages, sexes, athletes and those with sedentary lifestyles. As a result, daily life, recreational activities and participation in sports suffer. If the painful obstruction in this condition is not treated, normal functions of the body may be affected. This situation can lead to long-lasting chronic pain, motor impairment, and even mental depression.
In a healthy body, Qi moves in a smooth and balanced way through a series of channels called meridians. There are 12 meridians in total and any disturbance to the flow of Qi in any of these channels will lead to problems.
An acupuncturist can restore these disturbances by inserting fine needles into specific points along these channels to relieve pain and reduce inflammation.
There are other techniques that an acupuncturist can use to help recovery such as massage, tuina, cupping and electro-acupuncture.
For further information:
http://www.acupuncture.org.uk/research-fact-sheets.html
