An individual who is suffering from pain, might  be analyzed not only in terms of which meridians are blocked, but also according to which muscle groups are involved in the injury.

Once the complete underlying framework of the injury is understood, an acupuncture treatment plan can be devised to address both the main symptoms and their causes. This may include acupuncture, cupping, liniments, and Chinese herbs. Often stretches and exercises are recommended.

ScienceDaily (Oct. 18, 2007) — According to Duke University Medical Center, "using acupuncture before and during surgery significantly reduces the level of pain and the amount of painkillers needed by patients after the surgery is over."

       How Does Acupuncture Help?

This varies considerably based on the specific condition being treated. Each person receives an individualized treatment plan based on age, past medical history, lifestyle, treatment goals and current pain status.

Generally speaking acute pain (less than 3 months duration) is often resolved in a short series of treatments spaced close together, while chronic pain requires consistent regular treatment to achieve long-term pain relief.

Acupuncture Successfully treats:

   The Effect of Acupuncture on Arthritis

Acupuncture also reduces inflammation and swelling as it stops pain. These well documented effects of acupuncture are what allow it to treat both types of arthritis. Acupuncture treatments can eliminate the symptoms of arthritis and slow down the progression of the disease.

   How Does Acupuncture help back pain?

Acupuncture is best known for its ability to stop pain in general. It is effective in treating both acute and chronic back pain because it lessens the pain response locally as it relaxes nearby muscles.

                 Sports Injuries

Many professional sports teams have acupuncturists on staff to decrease healing times and resolve stubborn ailments. But the use of acupuncture to treat acute injuries from intense or repetitive physical activity began centuries ago.