Acupuncture, the ancient Chinese practice of inserting thin needles into the body, can help relieve more than just pain. In many cases, acupuncture is used for stress relief, relaxation, and to help people who suffer from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.
PTSD is a disorder brought on by experiencing shocking, scary, or dangerous events. It is completely normal for people who have witnessed something traumatic to suffer from flashbacks, nightmares or horrific memories. PTSD can occur when people experience or witness a serious accident, the death of a loved one, personal attacks, or other life-threatening experiences. A lot of research has been conducted on how PTSD in military personnel and veterans can be caused by brain injuries, specifically damage to the soft tissues caused by blows in combat.
Many studies show how acupuncture can help military personnel, veterans, and anyone else who suffers from PTSD. Often acupuncture for PTSD is administered to auricular positions of the body, including specific points around the ear. This is because these specific points are related to parts of the brain that control the nervous system and mitigate stress. Studies conducted by the Pentagon have found that acupuncture helps relieve combat veterans of their PTSD symptoms, in addition to decreasing their depression and pain.
Acupuncture for PTSD – Backed by Research
Many studies show that acupuncture is a great, natural way to relieve symptoms of PTSD. These symptoms include depression, anxiety, insomnia, and pain. One of the main symptoms of people who suffer from PTSD is sleeping. Or lack thereof. Many find it hard to close their eyes without reliving their traumatic experience. In a study conducted at the Veteran’s Association (VA), 100% of the participants with PTSD had trouble sleeping. Acupuncturist Without Borders, a non-profit organization, has started the Military Stress Recovery Project which uses acupuncture to help veterans sleep better.
Research has concluded that the healing effects of acupuncture for PTSD patients can last up to three months before needing another treatment. A lot of psychiatric treatments for PTSD are exposure-oriented, meaning the PTSD patients are required to reconstruct their traumatic events. Acupuncture is NOT exposure-oriented and can be viewed as safer for the patient, as well as non-intrusive. Research done by the Pentagon shows that most military personnel affected by PTSD would prefer a non-intrusive treatment because they prefer not to share or relive their traumatic experiences with a psychiatrist.
Acupuncture is a great alternative for more traditional medication, especially for people who may already be taking medication for other ailments. And many times people with PTSD don’t want to take drugs because they can become addictive. For PTSD sufferers who want a natural, non-exposure treatment, acupuncture is a good place to start. Acupuncture is a known holistic method to relieve stress and anxiety, two major symptoms of PTSD.
Although acupuncture for PTSD is a relatively new method for relieving symptoms, studies are starting to show the many benefits of it. At Pure Health, we offer acupuncture for PTSD, as well as a treatment for many other symptoms like back pain, stress, insomnia, trouble with weight loss and allergies. And for those Veterans suffering from PTSD, Pure Health can treat you with acupuncture and chiropractic care through your VA benefits. Call us today with any questions or to set up an appointment.