Do you suffer from chronic pain or muscle aches? If so, you might benefit from undergoing acupuncture and massage treatments, two popular forms of alternative medicine. Let’s take a look at how they can help alleviate chronic pain or temporary muscle aches.
How Does Acupuncture Work?
Originating in China, acupuncture has become a widely accepted form of treatment in the United States. Acupuncture can be used to alleviate a range of symptoms related to various conditions, including sprains, headaches and pain in the lower back, neck, knee or face, among many other conditions. It is also recommended for athletes who are recovering from an injury because it reduces pain and increases blood flow.
First, your acupuncturist examines the area you wish to treat as well as your overall state of wellbeing. If you are suffering from an injury, your acupuncturist may ask you to perform certain movements to see how the muscle reacts and how pressure is being distributed. Based on the severity of your pain or discomfort, he or she recommends a treatment plan that will meet your individual needs. Once a plan has been set, your acupuncturist inserts fine needles into the skin, targeting your acupressure points. The main goal is to restore balance throughout your body, thereby alleviating symptoms of your condition.
If you think you could benefit from acupuncture treatment, please book an appointment with your acupuncturist. Your acupuncturist will perform an initial assessment of your condition and anatomical needs and will answer any questions you have about the procedure
How Massage Therapy Helps You
Many pain management professionals recommend massage therapy as a way to treat soreness and pain, thanks to its many benefits and non-invasive approach. Relaxation is only one of the many reasons that people partake in this type of therapy. Massage therapy is said to:
- Alleviate low back pain
- Increase flexibility and range of motion
- Promote good blood circulation and the distribution of nutrients throughout the body
- Reduce cramping, swelling or muscle spasms
- Relax tired, injured or overused muscles
However, the benefits of undergoing massage therapy aren’t strictly physical. Massage therapy is also recommended for individuals who suffer from sleep deprivation or fatigue, experience high levels of anxiety or suffer from circulatory problems.
Massage Therapy Styles
There are various styles of massage therapy, including:
- Shiatsu. The massage therapist applies rhythmic pressure to acupressure points to encourage the uninterrupted flow of the body’s vital energy, chi.
- Thai. The therapist uses the strength of his or her own body to move the client into a variety of positions, to help mobilize joints, release tight or compressed muscles and perform acupressure techniques.
- Hot Stone Massage. The therapist places warm stones on different parts of the body or specifically on acupressure points. The stones can also be used as massage tools while transmitting heat deep into the patient’s muscles, helping to release muscle tension.
- Reflexology. The massage therapist uses his or her hands, thumbs and fingers to apply pressure to specific acupressure points on the feet. Putting pressure on these acupressure points activates a response from specific areas of the body.
If you feel that you would benefit from massage therapy, contact your acupuncturist today for a recommendation.