Research Points Toward Acupuncture's Value in Providing Pain Relief

Acupuncture in Palm Harbor: Studies Prove the Efficacy of Needles in Relieving Pain

Anahad O’Connor, writer for the NYTimes.com’s Well section, reports on a study financed by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) on the effectiveness of acupuncture in alleviating various kinds of pain. The study was conducted by a team of researchers from the U.S. and other countries, such as England, Sweden, and Germany. By gathering significant amounts of data from previous studies, Dr. Andrew J. Vickers and his research team sought to find the necessary evidence to make a pronouncement on the efficacy of acupuncture as therapy.

Regarded in the West as a form of alternative medicine, acupuncture is based on traditional Chinese treatments that date as far back as 5000 years. Today, acupuncture is practiced and offered by many leading health institutions and centers all over the U.S. such as the East West Healing Solutions where you can find experts on acupuncture in Palm Harbor, Florida.

Many people, especially those afflicted with chronic ailments, are moved to consider alternative medical treatments when conventional therapies become ineffective. It is estimated that around three million Americans undergo acupuncture therapy each year, hoping to resolve their medical or health problems.

Acupuncture is guided by the belief that qi, which translates to “life energy”, flows around the body through meridians or channels; and that pain and illnesses occur when one’s qi or energy flow is disrupted. Practitioners assert that by inserting needles into specific acupuncture points along these meridians throughout the body, balance is restored, and an individual is brought to a higher level of wellness.

In the NIH-sponsored study, the team of researchers compiled and examined data of earlier researches involving a cumulative 18,000 patients. After six years of analyzing and investigating selected studies that were determined to be of high quality, Dr. Vickers finally stated, “We think there’s firm evidence supporting acupuncture for the treatment of chronic pain.”

According to MayoClinic.com, acupuncture helps the body by triggering the release of natural pain killers and improving blood flow. Acupuncture’s positive effects on the body allow for relief of various conditions particularly pain syndromes.

Strong evidence presented by Dr. Vickers and his team, proves that acupuncture isn’t just a placebo or healing ritual, because it truly provides significant pain relief that could mean the whole world for a chronic pain sufferer. For now, you may consult Palm Harbor oriental medicine experts and learn more about acupuncture and how it can help you.

About the Author: Marie Perkins

Dr. Marie Perkins, OTR/L, LMT, DOM, Dipl. Ac. is one of the most recognized practitioners in Palm Harbor as a “non-pharmaceutical” pain specialist. She is the founder of East West Healing Solutions and is dedicated to helping patients enjoy optimum health. Born and raised in Quebec City Canada, Dr. Perkins received her Bachelor Degree in Occupational Therapy from University Laval in 1993. Her passion led her to leave everything behind and immigrated to Florida in 1995. She proceeded with acquiring her Massage Therapy license from Bahkti Academy in 1999 and her Master’s Degree in Oriental Medicine from the Florida Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine in 2004. Her goal for founding East West Healing Solutions was to be a pioneer in the community working at bridging the gap between Eastern and Western Medicine. She has established strong partnership with Medical Doctors, Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine, Orthopedic Surgeons, Neurologists, Pain Management Physicians, Doctors of Chiropractic, Rehabilitative Specialists, Athletic Directors, Coaches and Personal Injury Attorneys in the community proving not only that it can be done but also that a cohesive team approach is often the most efficient way to help a patient.. “Over the years I have continued to add to my knowledge in order to be able to help as many patients I possibly could. Most of the time, a joint effort from Western and Eastern Medicine is required to obtain optimal health. For that reason, patients should proactively seek a team of highly trained professionals in various fields, all working toward one common goal; the PATIENT’S best interest. Your health portfolio should be built with the same concepts as your financial portfolio; diversification is the key!, Dr. Marie Perkins tells her patients.” Aside from offering Traditional Acupuncture to Palm Harbor patients, her clinic also offers several other complementary treatments such as Herbal prescriptions, Cupping, Gua Sha, Moxibustion, Diathermia, Dry Aqua Massage, Cold Laser Therapy, Medical Massage and Postural Analysis among others. Dr. Perkins also develops customized, personal healing and health plans for each patient at East West Healing Solutions.