How Does Acupuncture Work for Nerve Pain?

The use of acupuncture as a kind of therapy to address a range of medical issues dates back thousands of years. Acupuncture has grown in acceptance as a nerve pain treatment in Western nations in recent years. Nerve damage or dysfunction is the primary cause of nerve pain, which is often referred to as neuropathic pain. This disorder can be chronic and incapacitating.

So, how does acupuncture work for nerve pain? The answer lies in the way acupuncture affects the nervous system.

Modern research has shed some light on the physiological mechanisms behind acupuncture’s effects. Let’s explore the mechanisms behind acupuncture and how it can provide pain relief for nerve pain.

Acupuncture Work for Nerve Pain

Here are some of the ways acupuncture can work for nerve pain.

Modulating pain signals

It has been shown that acupuncture activates the body’s endorphins and enkephalins, two natural painkillers. These chemicals can help to reduce the perception of pain by blocking the transmission of pain signals to the brain.

Reducing inflammation

Inflammation is a common cause of nerve pain, and acupuncture has been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects. Acupuncture can help alleviate pain and enhance function by lowering inflammation in the affected nerves.

Improving blood flow

Increasing blood flow to the injured area through acupuncture may help to lessen discomfort and speed up healing. The nutrients and oxygen the nerves require to operate properly can also be given to them through improved blood flow.

Modulating the nervous system

Acupuncture can stimulate the nervous system in various ways, depending on the location of the needles and the specific techniques used. For example, acupuncture can activate the parasympathetic nervous system, which can help to reduce stress and promote relaxation. It can also stimulate the sympathetic nervous system, which can help to reduce pain and inflammation.

Promoting nerve regeneration

By triggering the release of chemicals necessary for nerve growth and repair, such as growth factors and other compounds, acupuncture has been demonstrated to support nerve regeneration. Acupuncture can help in the restoration of function and the reduction of pain by encouraging nerve regrowth.

While the exact mechanisms behind acupuncture’s effects on nerve pain are still being studied, the evidence suggests that acupuncture can be a safe and effective treatment option for many people. However, it’s important to note that acupuncture is not a one-size-fits-all solution, and the best treatment plan will depend on the individual’s specific symptoms and underlying health conditions.

Effectiveness of acupuncture for specific nerve pain conditions

Let’s look at the research on acupuncture’s effectiveness for various nerve pain disorders.

Neuropathic Pain

Neuropathic pain is caused by damage or dysfunction of the nerves and can be a chronic and debilitating condition. A number of studies have investigated the effectiveness of acupuncture for neuropathic pain. A 2013 systematic review found that acupuncture was more effective than standard care for reducing pain intensity in people with neuropathic pain. Another study revealed that acupuncture was superior to no treatment for relieving neuropathic pain in cancer patients, according to the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews.

Trigeminal Neuralgia

A disorder called trigeminal neuralgia is characterized by severe facial discomfort. According to a 2019 comprehensive study, acupuncture helps persons with trigeminal neuralgia feel less discomfort overall.  According to a 2016 systematic review, acupuncture may be a helpful supplementary therapy for persons with trigeminal neuralgia.

Sciatica

Sciatica is a disorder that causes pain to travel down one or both legs from the lower back. The effectiveness of acupuncture for sciatica has been examined in a number of research. According to a 2015 comprehensive review, acupuncture may help people with sciatica manage their pain and perform better. An additional systematic study from 2018 discovered that acupuncture was superior to traditional therapies for easing pain and enhancing function in patients with sciatica.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

The symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome include pain, numbness, and tingling in the hands and fingers. According to a 2018 comprehensive review, acupuncture is more effective than a placebo or no treatment at all at easing pain and enhancing function in carpal tunnel syndrome patients. According to a 2019 comprehensive review, acupuncture can help persons with carpal tunnel syndrome manage their pain and function better.

Diabetic Neuropathy

Diabetes patients may experience diabetic neuropathy, a form of nerve damage. Several researches have looked into how well acupuncture treats diabetic neuropathy. According to a 2015 systematic study, acupuncture is superior to traditional therapies for easing pain and enhancing nerve function in persons with diabetic neuropathy. Another comprehensive review from 2017 discovered that acupuncture may be useful for treating diabetic neuropathy patients’ discomfort and enhancing nerve function.

Conclusion

In conclusion, acupuncture works for nerve pain by modulating pain signals, reducing inflammation, improving blood flow, modulating the nervous system, and promoting nerve regeneration. Also acupuncture has been shown to be effective for a variety of nerve pain conditions, including neuropathic pain, trigeminal neuralgia, sciatica, carpal tunnel syndrome, and diabetic neuropathy. If you’re struggling with nerve pain, acupuncture may be worth considering as a safe and effective treatment option.

If you’re considering acupuncture for nerve pain, it’s important to find a qualified and experienced acupuncturist who can work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan. Your acupuncturist should be licensed and trained in acupuncture techniques, and they should be able to answer any questions you have about the treatment process and potential risks.

If you are interested in acupuncture for nerve pain and looking for a licensed acupuncturist, you can visit the Acupuncture Halls clinic in San Juan Capistrano, California. You can consult a licensed and qualified acupuncturist at the clinic for help on your medical issues. Fill out this form or call 949-510-6333 to make an appointment.