Pain Management » Acupuncture
When it comes to pain management, acupuncture has been practiced in China - and beyond - for thousands of years. Acupuncture is a system of medicine that focuses on movement of energy, called Qi (pronounced "chee"), to harmonize the body. Moving through a network of channels called meridians, Qi sometimes needs help flowing evenly. Otherwise pain and other health problems develop.
Through the practice of acupuncture, we identify Qi dysfunction in your network of channels and insert into the skin hair-thin, stainless steel needles to unblock the flow. Working via the immune, endocrine and nervous systems, acupuncture affects:
- Neurons
- Electrolytes
- Neuro-transmitters
- Neuropeptides
Think of acupuncture like a river that irrigates dried-up areas. Just remember that the acupuncturist uses a holistic approach emphasizing harmony among the physical, mental and spiritual aspects. So the irrigation must work on all levels - a system that builds on itself and, in turn, restores your body, mind and spirit to their natural balance.
Despite all of the health benefits, some people shy away from this natural treatment, hesitant to entrust just anyone with this ancient art - and with good reason. Some providers who perform acupuncture in the Scottsdale and Phoenix areas have as little as 20 hours of training. On the contrary, our doctors have received up to 3,000 hours of training in acupuncture! So if you are concerned about the quality of your treatment, rest assured that here at Southwest Integrative Medicine, you are in good hands.
Other alternative therapies that may be effective for your pain management include:
