Acupuncture is an effective means of treating Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) because it works with the body’s natural energy flow to restore biochemical balance, and to relieve the anxiety and depression which often accompanies this debilitating condition. The news is flooded with information regarding our returning veterans and the rising diagnoses of PTSD. Of those diagnosed with PTSD, approximately one in three will have symptoms that impair many aspects of their life. Unfortunately, the condition is somewhat of a mystery for modern medicine and most people diagnosed with PTSD are simply prescribed prescription medicines - many of which have undesirable side effects and are not all that effective. For the most part medications do help but medicine alone doesn’t get to the root cause of the problem, emotional and psychological trauma. For example the medications can help with anxiety and depression but leaves victims of PTSD feeling angry, frustrated, and helpless underneath. Integrative medicine and acupuncture are an effective means of treating the anxiety and depression of PTSD as well as the underlying feelings.

In short, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder is a psychological response to witnessing or experiencing a traumatic event, usually involving violence, death, and/or the threat of injury. In an article published in USA Today, Warren Kinghorn, a VA psychiatrist, discusses the complexity of treating returning veterans with PTSD and how prescription medications and short-term therapy are simply not enough. As many as 20% of returning veterans suffer from PTSD, and they need more longterm treatment not simply medications. Psychologist Shira Maguen has found a distinct correlation between soldiers who took the life of another human being and more severe cases of PTSD, such as a higher risk of suicide.

Acupuncture for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder has been shown to be beneficial in multiple ways as it treats a variety of conditions linked to the disorder. In a research study done at NCCAM (national association of complimentary and alternative medicine) acupuncture was shown to be as effective as group cognitive behavioral therapy (group discussions and explorations). Cognitive behavioral therapy is typically highly effective for PTSD but is not always available to the veterans and when it is the length of treatment is not long enough.

The effectiveness of acupuncture in this study shows that veterans have another option to support their mental health. What's more is the study showed the effectiveness of treatment stayed for 3 months after treatment finished. A Phoenix acupuncture doctor can help those suffering from PTSD in two main ways. First by evaluating his/her symptoms and create a natural individualized treatment plan to relieve these symptoms and second by using acupuncture to support their overall mental health.

Those suffering with PTSD often struggle most with anxiety which can then lead to depression. Acupuncture for PTSD is so successful because acupuncture is a a great treatment for anxiety, depression, and sleep disorders.  Physical and mental health issues arise when the energy is out of balance. Acupuncture works by creating an energetic balance. When this balance is restored most people feel a sense of relaxation an ease. This ease can bring clarity and perspective to one's current struggles, especially when repeated over time. 

Acupuncture is also successful at treating chronic pain, which often accompanies war injuries. Each acupuncture treatment you receive will work to facilitate healthy energy flow along meridians - or pathways - where energy has become blocked or lethargic. This catalyzes the release of endorphins and other “feel good hormones.” Acupuncture also improves circulation, which helps to detoxify the blood, and increases your body’s access to oxygenation and vital nutrients, which are essential for a healthy body.

Acupuncture improves the mind-body connection. Traditional Chinese Medicine believes that a balanced mind-body connection is essential to mental and physical well being. As such your acupuncture doctor should discuss your diet and lifestyle habits to help you create a physical routine that promotes health. Combined with acupuncture, breathing exercises, and other body-based healing practices, such as meditation, those with PTSD will begin to experience a holistic return to health.