Wait acupuncture can affect my brain? Absolutely! Any type of stimulation you encounter is ultimately interpreted by the brain (and in some cases your spinal cord but both are part of your nervous system). As I noted in a previous post 5 Reasons Acupuncture Works recent studies of the effects of acupuncture on the brain show some pretty amazing things. Different areas of the brain are stimulated when different acupuncture points are stimulated. This means that by selecting the proper acupuncture points, an acupuncturist can target the effects of the acupuncture to help with very specific problems. This can have some far-reaching effects. Regulation of pain is a huge one for anyone suffering from pain. Acupuncture can induce the body to release different endorphins to help moderate pain symptoms. So how does this help the body heal. Well, if one is constantly in pain, it is difficult to rest, sleep or exercise. Proper sleep is critical to the bodies healing process and with some conditions, exercise is essential to healing. The nervous system (along with the hormonal system) regulates all functions in the body. The use of acupuncture to stimulate specific areas of the brain can affect things like cardiovascular function, digestion, mood and immunity. It is almost easier to ask, “What can acupuncture NOT effect”.
In our clinic, we often have patients observe that not only is their primary complaint getting better but other things are getting better. Like someone who comes in for pain treatment and they remark that their menstrual cycle is smoother, they are sleeping better and their digestion is also better. Because acupuncture stimulates the nervous system, and the nervous system has such far reaching effects, the acupuncture similarly has far reaching effects.
So, if you want to tune up your brain, come on down! Seriously, since the effects of acupuncture can be so targeted and yet so far reaching, we can help with a whole host of health problems and now you know why! Call or sign up online for a consultation today and we can let you know what we can do for you!!
Princeton Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine
Our patients know just how effective treatments are for these and a host of other problems. Steven Hoffman, a New Jersey Licensed Acupuncturist and Diplomate in Oriental Medicine, will provide you with a thorough intake and evaluation and a clear, comprehensive diagnosis and treatment plan that will insure that your goals are met or exceeded. Do you want to move past these or other problems? We will help you thrive not just survive!