As anyone living with chronic pain knows, it can hugely impact how we feel, and make day to day life difficult in any number of ways. Globally it is a big health burden, and studies suggest that at least one third of adults in the UK may be living with chronic pain conditions, rising to over a half of the over 75 age group. With an ageing population these figures are likely to increase over time.
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Traditional Chinese medicine, in particular acupuncture, is probably most widely known for its use in the management of pain. This is one reason why it is a popular treatment option for people in many countries around the world. The research evidence supporting acupuncture’s effectiveness for several types of chronic pain is ever growing. In fact the positive findings from clinical trials have led to acupuncture being recommended for pain management in some European countries and America.
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Here in the UK NICE guidelines recommend up to 10 sessions, over 8 weeks, of acupuncture as a treatment option for symptomatic relief of chronic tension headaches. The guidelines also recommend acupuncture for the short term management of primary chronic pain in adults.
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Research indicates that acupuncture may alleviate pain through several mechanisms. Possible pathways include the release of endorphins, the body's natural painkillers, and the modulation of inflammatory responses. Functional MRI studies have shown that acupuncture can alter brain activity in areas associated with pain perception, further supporting its potential role in pain management. Future studies may be able to provide deeper insight into these pathways, and how it contributes to healing. Both acupuncture and reflexology can also benefit our sense of well-being and balance. This in turn can help us feel more able to cope as a result.
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Person centred approach
Traditional Chinese medicine, including acupuncture, moxibustion, cupping, herbal medicine, and reflexology, can provide support for chronic pain in multiple ways. You are seen as a unique individual, with the symptoms of pain being only one part of the picture. Traditional Chinese medicine uses a detailed framework of pattern differentiation for diagnosis and treatment formulation. This takes into account the whole person, not only their symptoms, but also the root cause which has contributed to the pain. This holistic approach treats the person, not the disease, and can support an improvement in overall wellbeing as a result.
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How we can support you
At your initial consultation your practitioner will take a detailed history of not only your symptoms, but also your overall health and wellbeing. She will formulate a treatment plan and make recommendations, including small lifestyle changes if appropriate.
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If you are seeking treatment through acupuncture, your practitioner may suggest the use of moxibustion or cupping in addition to needles. Moxibustion can support the improvement in symptoms in certain cases, by bringing warmth into areas of pain, or the channel pathways where the pain manifests. Cupping therapy can help relax tight musculature, thereby help alleviate pain.
If you have opted for reflexology to support pain management, you may also have the option to add on some acupuncture to your treatment if desired.