Acupuncture for Stress and Anxiety

January 12, 2023

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Acupuncture is gaining popularity in America as more and more people become aware of the benefits of natural medicine.  Acupuncture is a key component of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), and involves the insertion of very thin needles strategically placed in various points of the body.  It is often used in conjunction with other holistic or integrative therapies to treat a vast array of physical and emotional conditions.

Acupuncture works by stimulating nerves, muscles, and connective tissue, signaling the body to release hormones and chemicals to reduce pain, increase inflammation, and regulate function.  Ancient Chinese practitioners described this function as the regulation of Qi, which is a Chinese word for life force or the flow of energy.  According to traditional Chinese medicine, when our Qi is balanced, we experience good health.

The History of Acupuncture

Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine practice that has been used for thousands of years. The earliest records of acupuncture date back to the 4th century BC in China and it was first documented by the Yellow Emperor’s Classic of Internal Medicine around 200 BC. Throughout history, acupuncture has been used to treat various physical and emotional ailments, including stress and anxiety. In the modern era, acupuncture has gained popularity as an effective treatment for a variety of conditions.

The Benefits of Acupuncture for Stress and Anxiety

Acupuncture provides a natural way to manage stress and anxiety by helping to restore balance and harmony within the body. It encourages relaxation, reduces stress hormones (such as cortisol), and releases endorphins which help to reduce pain and create a sense of well-being. Acupuncture has been found to help improve mood, reduce fatigue, and improve sleep quality. It can also help to increase energy levels, boost immunity, and regulate the body’s stress response.

Acupuncture is a Safe and Effective Treatment for Stress and Anxiety

Acupuncture is a safe and effective treatment for stress and anxiety. A study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine found that acupuncture was an effective treatment for reducing stress and anxiety levels in participants. The study found that acupuncture was able to significantly reduce participants’ heart rate and cortisol levels, which are two markers of stress.

Acupuncture Can Help to Relieve Symptoms of Stress and Anxiety

Acupuncture can also help to relieve symptoms of stress and anxiety, such as headaches, fatigue, difficulty sleeping, and irritability. A study published in the Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine found that acupuncture was effective in relieving these symptoms in participants. The study found that acupuncture was able to significantly improve participants’ quality of life by reducing their stress and anxiety levels.

Acupuncture is a Safe and Natural Treatment for Stress and Anxiety

Acupuncture is also a safe and natural treatment for stress and anxiety. Acupuncture is a minimally invasive treatment that does not require the use of any drugs or surgery.  Common side effects are rare, and include mild soreness and minor bleeding or bruising where the needles were placed.  When performed by a properly trained and credentialed acupuncturist, the risks associated with acupuncture are quite low.  Practitioners who train at qualified acupuncture schools in Wisconsin attend a master’s degree-level curriculum for a minimum of 30 months, and complete over 2,000 classroom and clinical hours.  A licensed acupuncturist in the state of Wisconsin is required to pass a clean needle exam as well as the national board exams.

If you’re struggling with stress and anxiety, acupuncture may be a natural and effective solution for you. Don’t let these feelings control your life any longer. Take control and try acupuncture today. Contact AcuWell Integrative Health to learn more about how acupuncture can benefit you and to schedule your appointment.

According to the World Health Organization, acupuncture is used to treat and support many conditions including:

  • Chronic and acute pain such as back pain, neck pain, arthritis pain, fibromyalgia, or other autoimmune conditions
  • Stress and Anxiety
  • Headaches and Migraines
  • Menstrual Pain, Fertility, and Women’s Health
  • Respiratory Health such as allergic rhinitis or bronchial asthma 
  • Nausea and Vomiting
  • Constipation, Diarrhea, or Irritable Bowel Syndrome 
  • Chronic or recurrent lower urinary tract infections
  • Bell’s Palsy 
  • Post-Stroke support 
  • Adverse reactions to radiation or chemotherapy 
  • Weight loss
  • Smoking cessation
  • Opioid withdrawal
  • And much more
Feeling Stressed? Book an Appointment Today!
Dr. Cox

Dr. Laura E. Cox, DAOM, NFMP, LAc, CHP, LMT

Connect with Dr. Cox on TikTok, LinkedIn, Facebook & Instagram. Ready to meet with Dr. Cox to begin a plan to prioritize the 5 Pillars of Health in your life? Make an appointment today.

Live Well. Choose Well. Be Well.

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