Treating Neck Pain With Acupuncture

Acupuncture has been used in China for thousands of years. It involves the placement of thin needles in the skin at specific points on the body, depending on what is being treated. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine theory, acupuncture helps treat various conditions by unblocking energy (qi) so it can resume flowing naturally through its normal pathways (meridians). Although, scientific studies have not yet confirmed the existence of qi or meridians.

Additionally, some studies have found that acupuncture can stimulate biochemical changes both locally (where the needles are placed) and in the central nervous system. In theory, these biochemical changes may help foster pain relief and other beneficial effects in some cases.

1. How Acupuncture Is Applied for Neck Pain 

Acupuncture treatments can vary widely based on the practitioner’s methods and treatment strategy. In most cases, the acupuncturist starts by asking about the patient’s symptoms, diet, and daily routine, which may give clues about the most effective points on the body to place the needles.

Even when symptoms of  pain is only in the neck area, the needles may be placed in other areas of the body in addition to the neck. Depending on treatment method, the patient might be asked to lie on the stomach, back, or sit in a reclined position.

It is common for an acupuncture treatment session to last somewhere between 15 and 30 minutes. Relaxing music might be played to help keep the environment calm and soothing. After the treatment is completed, the thin needles are removed and disposed.

The recommended duration and frequency of acupuncture sessions may depend on how long the neck pain and stiffness have already lasted, as well as the severity of symptoms. Ultimately, the decision is up to the patient as to whether the perceived benefits of the acupuncture treatments are worth continuing. Some health insurance plans cover acupuncture for treating chronic pain, but others do not. 

2. Efficacy of Acupuncture to Treat Neck Pain

The medical literature has been mixed regarding whether acupuncture is an effective treatment for chronic neck pain and stiffness. Some small studies have suggested that acupuncture can help improve neck function and reduce pain, but these results do not appear to last long-term.2 There is also evidence that acupuncture can help reduce stress levels, which might play a role in reducing neck pain in some individuals.

Overall, most of the evidence in favor of acupuncture being an effective treatment for a chronic stiff neck is based on people self-reporting or small studies that offer weak scientific evidence. More research is needed to determine whether or not acupuncture can provide more than just temporary relief for a chronic stiff neck.

3. Best place for Acupuncture in HCMC

If you are suffering pain of neck pain, why don’t you come to Lotus Clinic? Located at 33/16 Ly Van Phuc Street, Tan Dinh Ward, District 1, Lotus Clinic is the best place to massage with affordable price. The most special thing at Lotus Clinic that you will be massaged by ceritified doctors not a massage therapist. Before delivering therapy, the doctors will ask your current situation and decide which therapy should be applied. If you are staying quite far away from our clinic and still want to experience our therapy? Don’t worrry, Lotus Clinic also have massage therapy at home. With the team of nearly 20 doctors, we could help you to deliver massage therapy at anywhere in Ho Chi Minh City. If you have any question so far or want to book an appointment right now, call us 0778899207.