Acupuncture: How It Works in Modern Medicine

Acupuncture is a type of traditional Chinese medicine that has been used for thousands of years to reduce pain and relieve various types of symptoms. Today, it is not only used in Asia but in countries around the world as a complementary treatment to Western medicine.

You may think that the traditionalism of acupuncture would clash with the scientific foundation of modern medicine. In fact, many enlightened care practitioners, including the highly trained providers at Atlas Health Center in San Francisco, California, believe that acupuncture and modern medicine can work together in harmony.

Our providers are happy to share some thoughts with you about how acupuncture can align with Western medicine.  

Two sides of one coin

Acupuncture uses very thin needles inserted just under the skin throughout the body to stimulate your body's own healing and pain-relieving processes.

Traditional Chinese medicine holds that acupuncture unleashes a healing response by allowing blocked energy to flow through your body. When the life force known as chi can travel unimpeded through the meridians in your body, your energy becomes balanced and you experience a reduction or disappearance of pain and other symptoms, according to traditional principles.  

Western medicine believes that acupuncture works in a different way: by stimulating the release of natural pain-relieving neurochemicals, such as endorphins, that reduce or eliminate symptoms.

To some extent, it doesn't matter which explanation you choose to accept. Either way, acupuncture is a safe, effective way to treat a variety of ailments, including chronic pain.

A modern approach

Acupuncture has received careful analysis in scientific studies during the past few decades. Results have been convincing enough that the National Institutes of Health endorses acupuncture as a reasonable treatment option for the following conditions:

• Low-back pain
• Migraine headaches (to prevent onset)
• Neck pain
• Osteoarthritis/knee pain
• Tension headaches (to reduce frequency)
• Cancer treatment side-effects, such as chemo-induced nausea and vomiting

Other medical authorities, including the Mayo Clinic, point to acupuncture as a way to relieve the discomfort of several other conditions as well, including:

• Dental pain
• Labor pain
• Menstrual cramps
• Post-operative nausea and vomiting
• Respiratory disorders, such as nasal allergies

Here at Atlas Health Center, we are pleased to offer our patients acupuncture as a drug-free treatment option for a wide range of conditions, including — but not limited to — chronic pain conditions. We believe that acupuncture can lead to a healthier, more robust immune system, greater vitality, and even better relationships with others.

And as almost anyone who has had acupuncture will tell you, it is also a highly relaxing treatment that leaves you feeling refreshed.

Acupuncture for whatever ails you

Our patients receive acupuncture on its own or along with other approaches, including medication and other modern medical treatments. To schedule an acupuncture treatment or consultation, call our San Francisco office at 415-549-0555, or book an appointment online now.