How TCM Acupuncture Manages Pain

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) acupuncture is based on the meridian system.  Each meridian consists of a series of acupuncture points that pass through a specific part of the body.  Each point has general and specific therapeutic effects on a particular region of the body.

Further, the effectiveness of the TCM acupuncture points system for pain management treatment has been confirmed by many modern scientific studies.

Stimulation of peripheral nerves

Peripheral nerves are the network of nerves that extend from the brain and spinal cord to the rest of the body – muscles, organs, sensory receptors, etc.  Peripheral nerve stimulation can trigger the release of endorphins which are the body’s natural pain reliever and thus lead to pain reduction.

Modulation of Central Nervous System (CNS)

CNS is a combination of brain and spinal cord—the central panel and the message carrier (between the brain and peripheral nerves) respectively.  The TCM acupuncture system demonstrates the reduction of the intensity of the pain signal process in both brain and spinal cord.

f-MRI studies have shown acupuncture deactivates the pain perception areas in the brain.

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4270153/

Improvement of blood flow

Acupuncture promotes blood circulation to the injury site and, consequently, more oxygen and nutrients move through the area.  This helps with the healing process.

Reduction of inflammation markers

Multiple studies have shown that acupuncture inhibits the pro-inflammatory protein (Cytokines) and promotes anti-inflammatory and tissue repair factors.  As a result, it reduces pain.

Balancing of the nervous system

During period of pain, the fight-or-flight mode (Sympathetic Nervous System) becomes active.  Certain acupuncture points can activate the resting mode (Parasympathetic Nervous System) and promote relaxation and restoration.  This results in pain relief.