The Benefits of Acupuncture for Addiction Recovery

Acupuncture has been a traditional therapy for various ailments for thousands of years. Using acupuncture for addiction recovery has been proven successful with other modalities.

Imagine feeling trapped in a cycle of addiction, where withdrawal symptoms and cravings seem to control every moment of your day. Now, imagine finding relief and relaxation through a series of tiny needles inserted into specific points on your body. For many people struggling with addiction, acupuncture has been a lifesaving complementary therapy that promotes healing, balance, and inner calm.

What is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is an ancient form of medicine that originated in China over 2,500 years ago. By inserting thin needles into specific points on the body, practitioners of acupuncture aim to stimulate energy flow and promote healing.

The practice was first described in the Yellow Emperor’s Classic of Internal Medicine, a text dating back to the 3rd century BCE. Over the centuries, acupuncture spread throughout Asia and eventually to the Western world.

Today, it is recognized as a safe and effective treatment for various conditions, including chronic pain, anxiety, and infertility. It is often used with other forms of traditional and Western medicine.

Is Acupuncture Safe?

Although acupuncture is generally considered safe, some people may worry about the potential pain or discomfort of inserting needles into their skin. It’s important to note that the thinness of acupuncture needles and their shallow insertion into the skin is intended to minimize the risk of injury or complications.

Most people do not experience significant pain during the treatment. Still, needle insertion may cause some individuals a brief, mild discomfort or a sensation of pressure or tingling. This sensation usually subsides quickly. Acupuncture is often described as a relaxing and enjoyable experience by many individuals, with some even falling asleep during the treatment. Some acupuncturists also use gentle massage or heat therapy techniques to enhance the treatment’s relaxation and pain-relieving effects.

Does Acupuncture Hurt?

Acupuncture typically involves the insertion of thin, sterile needles into specific points on the body. Most people do not experience significant pain during the treatment. Some people report feeling a brief, mild discomfort or a sensation of pressure or tingling as the needle is inserted, but this usually subsides quickly.

The Benefit of Acupuncture for Addiction Recovery

Acupuncture is a helpful complementary therapy for addiction recovery. It can alleviate withdrawal symptoms, reduce cravings, promote relaxation, and reduce stress.

One of the ways acupuncture may help with addiction recovery is by stimulating the release of endorphins, which are the body’s natural painkillers and mood enhancers. Acupuncture can also help balance the body’s energy systems and promote calm and inner balance. This can be particularly helpful for people in recovery who may be experiencing a range of emotional and psychological challenges as they work to overcome addiction.

Research has shown that acupuncture can be an effective complementary therapy for addiction recovery, mainly when used in conjunction with other forms of treatment, such as counseling and support groups. It is vital to work with a qualified and licensed acupuncturist with experience working with individuals in recovery to ensure the treatment is safe and effective.

Acupuncture Can Also Aid in Dual Diagnosis Treatment

In the treatment of dual diagnosis, acupuncture can provide several benefits, including:

• Reducing stress and anxiety: Acupuncture can help regulate the body’s nervous system, reducing feelings of stress and anxiety and improving mood.
• Alleviating physical symptoms: Acupuncture can treat various symptoms associated with dual diagnoses, such as headaches, fatigue, and sleep disturbances.
• Improving sleep: By promoting relaxation and reducing stress and anxiety, acupuncture can enhance sleep quality and help individuals with dual diagnosis get the rest they need to support their recovery.
• Relieving pain: Acupuncture has effectively reduced pain and discomfort, which can be particularly helpful for individuals with dual diagnoses who may experience chronic pain related to substance abuse or mental health issues.
• Supporting detoxification: Acupuncture can help the body release toxic substances, promoting detoxification and supporting overall physical and mental health.
• Promoting self-care: Acupuncture is a form of self-care that can help individuals with dual diagnoses learn to take better care of themselves, physically and emotionally.

Combined with traditional treatments and other holistic therapies, acupuncture can be a valuable addition to treating dual diagnosis. It can provide individuals with a comprehensive and integrative approach to their recovery.

While acupuncture can be a helpful complementary therapy for addiction recovery and dual diagnosis treatment, it’s important to note that it may not work for everyone. It’s not a stand-alone substitute treatment for medical or psychiatric care. Additionally, some people may experience side effects from acupuncture, such as minor bruising or bleeding, and there is a small risk of infection if proper sterilization procedures are not followed. It’s also essential to work with a qualified and licensed acupuncturist with experience working with individuals in recovery to ensure the treatment is safe and effective.

Treatment at Massachusetts Center for Addiction

What makes our facility different than others around us? We create a treatment plan for each individual who starts treatment with us. We incorporate different medications, therapies, groups, and holistic treatments to ensure the whole patient is treated, not just an addiction.

Call us today to learn how to start the journey to become a healthier version of yourself. We are here 24/7 to answer any questions or help you get started.