Chronic pain is pain that’s long-lasting. It’s a serious health condition for many people in Orange, CA. The physical symptoms of chronic pain can be debilitating, making it difficult to sleep, work, and enjoy life.
In Western medicine, medication is the default treatment for managing chronic pain. Often referred to as “painkillers,” these medications work by blocking pain signals from reaching the brain. There are many types of painkillers, such as acetaminophen, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), anticonvulsants, and opioids.
PAIN MEDICATIONS CAN PRODUCE UNPLEASANT SIDE EFFECTS
There are two problems with taking medications for pain management. One, most medications only treat the pain symptoms of a condition rather than the condition itself. Second, the use of some pain management medications can produce unwanted side effects.
Some of the common side effects associated with taking medicines that treat pain include:
- Constipation
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Skin rashes
- Liver and kidney problems
- Upset stomach
- Internal bleeding
- Xerostomia (dry mouth)
- Fatigue and drowsiness
- Headache
- Heart problems
- High blood pressure
- Depression
- Physical dependence and addiction
In addition, pain medications aren’t right for everyone. Drugs may not be suitable treatment for persons who are underweight, under 16, over 65, have respiratory problems, liver and kidney problems, ulcers, and women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. This is why it’s so important to check with a physician before taking any pain medications.
PAIN MANAGEMENT THAT DOESN’T COME IN A PILL
Fortunately, medication isn’t the only way to treat the symptoms of chronic pain. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has been used for thousands of years to treat pain without the need for drugs. One of the most popular TCM therapies for relieving chronic pain is acupuncture.
- Most of us are familiar with the basics of acupuncture. It involves inserting small needles just below the screen at specific points along the body. The points are called meridians and help balance and direct the flow of Qi, or life energy, through the body.
- Acupuncture can relieve chronic pain and restore balance and well-being in many ways:
- Acupuncture needles promote the flow of oxygenated blood to the affected area, reducing pain and inflammation. This facilitates the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to tissues while aiding in the removal of metabolic waste products.
- The needles can also block the pain signals that travel from the nerves to the brain.
- Acupuncture can trigger the release of endorphins and other natural pain relievers.
- Acupuncture stimulates the body’s immune response, speeding up the healing process.
ACUPUNCTURE PROVIDES NATURAL PAIN RELIEF IN ORANGE, CA
If you’re looking to avoid the side effects of pain medication, give Quality Acupuncture Inc. a call. We provide acupuncture and other alternative therapies for relieving pain without the need for medications. Our treatment plans are designed to provide long lasting relief from chronic pain rather than just treating its symptoms.
Quality Acupuncture Inc. is a health and wellness clinic that’s been offering safe, effective acupuncture procedures in Orange, CA for over ten years. Call us at 714-532-2827 to schedule an appointment today. We accept most forms of PPO insurance and always welcome new patients.
