5 Surprising Benefits of Acupuncture

Acupuncture is an ancient healing practice that has been used in some form for about 2,500 years. The practice, a primary modality of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), involves inserting thin needles into specific points on your body to promote balance and alleviate various health issues. 

While many people turn to acupuncture for pain relief, this holistic therapy offers other surprising benefits beyond pain management. 

At Nutura Clinic in Portland, Oregon, our naturopathic doctors and Chinese medicine practitioners provide comprehensive medicine consultation and acupuncture packages to help you find the best treatment plan for your health concerns. 

Here, our specialists share five surprising benefits of acupuncture.

Reduce stress

When our CM practitioner inserts fine needles into specific acupoints during an acupuncture session, your body releases endorphins, natural mood elevators and pain relievers. Additionally, acupuncture helps regulate your body's stress response by calming your sympathetic nervous system, leading to an overall sense of relaxation and emotional balance. 

Improve sleep

About a third of all Americans struggle with sleeplessness. In the same way, acupuncture can reduce stress by calming your sympathetic nervous system, also called the flight-or-fight response, it can help relax your body and prepare it for sleep. 

One study found that those who received acupuncture experienced significantly reduced anxiety and improved sleep quality compared to people who didn't receive acupuncture. Best of all, it's a natural and non-invasive way to address sleep issues without the need for medication.

Ease migraine severity

As a pain reliever, acupuncture helps alleviate headache pain. But, for those who experience migraines, which are severe headaches that can last for hours or even days, acupuncture can not only help relieve your pain, but it may also reduce the frequency of your migraine attacks. 

A systematic review of 22 clinical trials found that acupuncture helped the majority of study participants reduce migraines by 50%. 

Boost immune system

By stimulating your body's natural defense mechanisms, acupuncture can support anti-inflammatory and anti-infectious responses. These response mechanisms help prevent illness and reduce the severity and duration of colds and other infections. This immune-boosting effect makes acupuncture invaluable during this flu and cold season.

Restore digestive balance

Whether you suffer from chronic indigestion, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), or acid reflux, acupuncture can help regulate your gastrointestinal function. 

By targeting specific points, acupuncture can alleviate symptoms and restore balance to your digestive system. Many patients experience relief from bloating, constipation, and other digestive discomforts through regular acupuncture treatments.

If you want to see how acupuncture can help you, contact Nutura Clinic to schedule a consultation by calling our office or requesting an appointment online today.