Acupuncture for Anxiety: Is This Natural Remedy Right for You?
Anxiety has countless triggers, so it’s only logical that you’d want to find the best method for treating your ailment. Intrusive thoughts or fears, a racing mind, immobility, and a pounding heart are common frustrations for anxiety sufferers everywhere.
Although medications and therapy are the most likely treatments for anxiety, there’s also another method. Acupuncture has been shown to effectively combat anxiety naturally, making it an ideal choice if you’d prefer not to medicate.
What Causes Anxiety?
Millions of people throughout the world suffer from anxiety. It can appear in anyone at any time and for any reason. However, life experiences, traumatic events, genetics, and personality type are all factors that can make a person more likely to develop anxiety.
What Is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese practice that involves pressing needles into specific pressure points on the body to achieve a particular effect. Acupuncturists use these thin needles to penetrate the skin then apply precise movements to stimulate healing.
In addition to anxiety, acupuncture is used to treat many common ailments, including:
- Back pain
- Neck pain
- Labor pains
- Arthritis
- Menstrual cramps
- Headaches
Acupuncture For Anxiety
For most people, acupuncture is an effective treatment against certain types of pain. However, studies have shown that acupuncture can help heal certain mental ailments, including anxiety.
Pros and Cons of Using Acupuncture for Anxiety
There are several reasons why someone might choose to use acupuncture to treat their anxiety. Still, you should be aware of any potential ill effects, too.
Pros
- Decreases reliance on medication
- Decreases stress response
- Initiates relaxation
- Regulates inflammatory chemical release
Cons
- Soreness or bruising at puncture sites
- Complications for pre-existing conditions, such as bleeding disorders
To avoid unnecessary pain, infection, or complications, make sure you take time to research the best acupuncturists in your area. Only visit licensed professionals such as those at Holistic Vitality Center, who ensure their facilities and tools are clean.
What to Expect
At your first visit, the acupuncturist will ask you a few questions to assess your needs and expectations. They’ll also want to review your complete medical history before proceeding. Then, they’ll provide your first treatment.
A typical acupuncture session lasts approximately 30 minutes. First, your acupuncturist will insert long, thin needles into various pressure points. After they’ve placed the needles, the acupuncturist will move, twist, or apply light electrical pulses to the needles to stimulate a response.
Final Thoughts
Anxiety sufferers often go through months or years of trial and error before finding the right treatment plan. If you’re still suffering from anxiety and want to give a natural remedy a try, give Holistic Vitality Center a call at (919) 848-3333 or contact us online to schedule an appointment today!