Is acupuncture an effective treatment for depression?
In one 2013 study , researchers found that electroacupuncture, a type of acupuncture that uses a mild electric current transmitted through the needles, was just as effective as fluoxetine (Prozac) in easing depression symptoms.
How fast does acupuncture work for depression?
But the acupuncture began to work faster, reducing symptoms more dramatically at weeks two and four than the drug did. Among the patients who got better, a higher percentage of the acupuncture recipients showed “great improvement.”
How does acupuncture help anxiety and depression?
Acupuncture is beneficial for depression because of its ability to regulate energy flow throughout the body, and its ability to stimulate the production of endorphins, which are essential for mental health and wellbeing. Endorphins are “feel good” chemicals released in the brain.
How does acupuncture help with mental health?
Specifically, acupuncture works to relieve symptoms of depression by stimulating areas of the body responsible for the production of vital emotion-managing hormones. Therefore, assisting in the releasing of mood-boosting endorphins which result in feelings of positive feelings and helping with emotional regulation.
What are the disadvantages of acupuncture?
The possible risks of acupuncture are:
- It is dangerous if a patient has a bleeding disorder or takes blood thinners.
- Bleeding, bruising, and soreness may occur at the insertion sites.
- Unsterilized needles may infect the patient.
- In rare cases, a needle may break and damage an internal organ.
How do I know if acupuncture is working?
Acupuncture needles are much thinner than medical needles, and they are solid, not hollow. The needles may cause some muscle sensations, such as dull ache or tingling. Your practitioner will ask you to report when you feel a deep heaviness or numbness. Those sensations usually mean the treatment is working.
How often should you get acupuncture?
A common treatment plan for a single complaint would typically involve one or two treatments a week. The number of treatments will depend on the condition being treated and its severity. In general, it’s common to receive six to eight treatments.
When should you stop acupuncture?
As with any medical treatment, there are certain contraindications for acupuncture treatments, including:
- Drug or alcohol intoxication.
- Use of a pacemaker.
- A seizure disorder.
- Bleeding disorder such as hemophilia or use of blood thinners.
- Infections skin disorder or disease.
Can acupuncture bring out emotions?
Acupuncture helps balance emotions. When grief, sadness, joy, anger or worry go unexpressed or aren’t resolved, our life-energy can’t move properly, causing a host of problems.
Does acupuncture for depression actually work?
As acupuncture has worked its way into Western medicine, the practice has become a staple in complementary care. Researchers have also begun to look into the benefits it may offer other conditions, such as depression and anxiety. 2. Does it actually work? Very few rigorous or reliable studies have looked at the benefits of acupuncture.
How can acupuncture help with treating depression?
Dr. Josh Klapow Ph.D, a clinical psychologist, tells Bustle that acupuncture can be a helpful adjunctive treatment for depression because it can reduce muscle tension, soothe the central nervous system, and improve your mood. It’s also an excellent way to take time out of your day for yourself.
Can acupuncture cure insomnia and relieve depression?
Acupuncture alleviates depression and sleep disorders according to new research. The investigators note that acupuncture’s ability to benefit the brain may be an effective therapeutic action. Depression and Insomnia Relieved By Acupuncture
Can acupuncture help depression and anxiety?
Obviously, acupuncture can’t always treat moderate or severe depression alone and you should consult your doctor before going off or reducing any medication. But, the evidence is clear: acupuncture may be able to improve depression, anxiety, and stress. The experience of acupuncture is, for most of my patients, quite pleasant and relaxing.