Looking for a Safe, Drug-Free Alternative for Pain Management? Try Acupuncture

Written by Sandra Emmi


Acupuncture has been around for more than 2,000 years in China, but it didn’t gain popularity in the United States until the 1970s. Since then more and more people are turning to acupuncture to help alleviate their pain, and though it doesn’t work for everyone, it’s worth a try for those who wish to avoid taking prescription pain medication.

The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine claims that acupuncture has been used successfully to treat pain associated with a host of conditions, including arthritis, back and neck pain, migraines, menstrual cramps, carpel tunnel syndrome and fibromyalgia. Acupuncture has even been used to treat depression and addiction, so it can benefit your mental state as well.

And, despite the fact that it is performed with needles, acupuncture does not hurt. The needles used are extremely thin, nothing like those used to administer shots, and may cause tingling or mild pressure, but no pain. Most people actually find it relaxing.

However, acupuncture may not be an option for everyone, as it is not always covered by private insurance, and Medicare will not pay for this procedure. Most people need 12 treatments to see results, and each treatment can cost between $50 and $125.

If you are interested in trying acupuncture, be sure to choose a practitioner that is certified and licensed. Websites that list qualified acupuncturists include those of the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (www.nccaom.org) and the American Association of Acupuncture & Oriental Medicine (www.acufinder.com). If you prefer to have a licensed physician perform the procedure, a list of MDs who offer acupuncture is available at the website of the American Academy of Medical Acupuncturists (www.medicalacupuncture.org).



Other Posts

Proline is an amino acid needed for the production of collagen and cartilage
Inositol as an aid in the redistribution of body fat
Choline keeps the liver healthy by helping to move fats from the liver to cells in the body
Biotin works with other B vitamins to make healthy cells and convert carbohydrates, fats, and proteins into energy
Copper plays a key role in the development and maintenance of healthy skin and hair