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Does Acupuncture Work as a Treatment for Fibromyalgia?
Are you looking for non-conventional therapies to help relieve pain associated with Fibromyalgia and other chronic health conditions? Acupuncture has been in practice for thousands of years, and many believe acupuncture is beneficial for pain relief. But does acupuncture work for Fibromyalgia specifically?
What is Fibromyalgia?
Fibromyalgia is a chronic health condition characterized by widespread pain, fatigue, and other symptoms. Many people suffering from Fibromyalgia, and other chronic conditions, tend to experience “flare-ups”, in which the symptoms become exacerbated and the pain can become intense. Medications, such as anti-inflammatories and narcotic pain relievers, may provide short-term relief, but they don’t address the underlying causes and may have unwanted side-effects.
How Does Acupuncture Work?
Acupuncture is based on the concept of restoring balance and proper energy flow within the body. By inserting very fine needles in certain acupuncture points in the body, the practitioner can improve Qi (energy) flow and restore balance. This helps alleviate pain and inflammation, and can also help to improve organ function and biochemical balance.
Can Acupuncture Treat Fibromyalgia?
Numerous studies have shown that acupuncture is effective in treating pain associated with Fibromyalgia.
A 2009 study published in The Journal of Rheumatology looked at the use of acupuncture and the effects on 180 patients with Fibromyalgia. The results showed that the group receiving acupuncture had a significant reduction in the intensity of their pain when compared to the placebo group.
Similarly, a 2013 study published in The Journal of Pain Research found that patients with Fibromyalgia who underwent acupuncture experienced greater pain relief than those who received other conventional therapies.
Overall, there is a growing body of evidence supporting the effectiveness of acupuncture in treating pain associated with Fibromyalgia
. However, it is important to note that acupuncture works best when used in combination with other treatments, such as physical therapy, yoga, and cognitive-behavioral therapy.
If you are considering acupuncture as a treatment for Fibromyalgia, be sure to speak with your doctor and find an experienced, licensed acupuncturist.
Conclusion
Acupuncture has been around for thousands of years, and has been used to treat a variety of health conditions, including pain associated with Fibromyalgia. While more research is needed to understand the long-term effects, numerous studies have shown that acupuncture is effective in reducing Fibromyalgia pain. Be sure to speak with your doctor and find an experienced, licensed acupuncturist before starting acupuncture as a treatment for Fibromyalgia.
