In recent years, statistics show that an estimate of 6.8 million adults in America alone is suffering from Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) and depression.
With the fast-paced world people live in and the hectic schedule in between, it’s no surprise to see many people developing anxiety from built-up stress. Be it health issues, financial instability, family problems, or difficulties at work. Studies show that at least 16% of adults between the ages of 18 and 54 suffer from one form or another of anxiety disorders.
Many people regard it solely as a mental issue, though its effects can be felt physically too. For one, it confers muscle tension, fatigue, headaches, irritability, sweating, nausea, lightheadedness, and shortness of breath.
An effective way to reduce the debilitating symptoms of anxiety and panic disorders is through acupuncture, a form of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Using needles, it uses various kinds of treatments that focus on superficial tissue manipulation. This means that built-up tension is broken down in the muscles to soothe aches or pain from multiple parts of the body on anxious-ridden patients. But does it actually work?
What is Acupuncture?
It is a form of Chinese medicine, which has been commonly practised on a global scale for over 2,500 years. This practise involves inserting thin, sterile needles into the patient’s skin to relieve muscle pain. It stimulates different pain points on the body with the belief that one’s flow of “qi” or energy is disrupted. To that end, here are its benefits:
Benefit #1: It can relieve pain
When the needles are inserted in the body’s acupuncture points, it stimulates one’s endorphins, which is a natural painkiller. This release of endorphins provides rapid and long-lasting pain relief. In turn, it eases inflammation, boosts the range of motion, and elevate feelings of happiness. Additionally, it may even enhance the immune system with its natural method of reducing muscle soreness and bodily illnesses.
Benefit #2: It can improve blood flow
The body increases its nitric oxide in the body due to the stimulation of acupuncture points stimulated by the sterile needle. This increase in nitric oxide causes blood vessels to relax and widen, allowing more blood to flow to the heart and other organs for improved blood flow and cardiovascular health.
Benefit #3: It can relax muscles
This goes hand-in-hand with the regulation of the body’s blood flow as an improved blood circulation allows tight muscles to relax and reduce its inflammation. This relieves fatigue and muscle soreness throughout the body.
Benefit #4: It can enhance energy and endurance
By removing blockages in the body and increasing the flow of “qi,” the body’s energy is improved, which enhances the mood. This is done by regulating the nervous system by addressing acupuncture sites relating to the liver, lung function, and the digestive system.
The Bottom Line
Acupuncture is widely used to evoke deep feelings of relaxation and reduced anxiety. Additionally, it came with other mood-enhancing benefits and decreased levels of cortisol that calms the body and mind during stress.
However, there are rare cases where there can be severe side effects such as itching, allergic reactions, soreness, bleeding, bruising, muscle twitching, tiredness, and drowsiness. While it is rare, the risk is typically high when the practitioner uses an improper technique. For that reason, it’s critical to seek help only from certified, licensed, and well-trained practitioners.
If you’re looking to have acupuncture treatment in Sydney, get in touch with us today to see how we can help!