By Einaz Farahmand
QubeCore Sports & Rehab Acupuncturist
How does pain occur in the body?
Pain is the body’s way of signaling that something is wrong. It can result from tissue injury, nerve irritation, or inflammation. When tissue is damaged, the body releases pro-inflammatory molecules, such as cytokines and prostaglandins, which activate pain receptors (nociceptors) and send signals to the brain. Chronic pain often develops when these signals are amplified or persist over time.
How does acupuncture help relieve pain?
Acupuncture works by stimulating specific points on the body to modulate the nervous system and reduce inflammation, targeting both pain perception and the underlying causes. Key mechanisms include:
- Activation of endogenous opioids: Acupuncture stimulates the release of endorphins, enkephalins, and dynorphins, natural pain-relieving chemicals that reduce pain perception.
- Neuromodulation: It affects the central nervous system, altering how pain signals are processed in the brain and spinal cord. This can reduce the intensity of pain signals reaching the brain.
- Reduction of inflammation: Acupuncture can decrease pro-inflammatory cytokines and increase anti-inflammatory cytokines, helping tissues heal more efficiently.
- Improved circulation: Needling specific points increases blood flow to affected areas, supporting tissue repair and reducing localized pain and swelling.
- Muscle relaxation: Acupuncture helps release tension in tight muscles that may contribute to pain and restricted movement.
Many patients report rapid pain relief, improved mobility, and reduced inflammation after a series of treatments.
What types of pain respond well to acupuncture?
Acupuncture has been shown to help with:
- Chronic pain: Back pain, neck pain, arthritis, fibromyalgia
- Acute pain: Sprains, strains, post-surgical pain
- Neuropathic pain: Nerve-related pain, such as sciatica or carpal tunnel syndrome
How often should someone receive acupuncture for pain relief?
Treatment frequency varies based on your pain type and severity. Acute pain may require 1–2 sessions per week until symptoms improve, while chronic pain is typically treated weekly for several weeks, then maintained as needed. Each acupuncture session is personalized to target both the symptoms and the root imbalances contributing to your pain and inflammation.
What can patients expect during a pain-focused session?
A session starts with a discussion about your pain history, lifestyle, and overall health. Fine, sterile needles are inserted at carefully selected points to stimulate nerves, improve circulation, and reduce pain and inflammation.
Many patients feel relief during or immediately after the session, along with increased mobility and reduced muscle tension.
Acupuncture offers a safe, effective, and natural approach to managing pain and inflammation. By supporting the body’s innate healing mechanisms, it can reduce reliance on medications, improve mobility, and enhance overall well-being.
QubeCore Sports & Rehab offers Acupuncture services in North Vancouver for a wide range of concerns. To book your appointment with Einaz Farahmand, call 604.210.2274 or simply book online by clicking HERE.
References
Vickers AJ, et al. Acupuncture for chronic pain: Individual patient data meta-analysis. PubMed
Langevin HM, et al. Mechanisms of acupuncture for musculoskeletal pain: A review. PubMed
Zhao ZQ. Neural mechanisms underlying acupuncture analgesia. PubMed