10 Surprising Benefits of Acupuncture (Plus Exciting News: Mobile Acupuncture Now Available in Denver!)

Mar 7

Acupuncture is a well-established treatment rooted in traditional Chinese medicine, but it’s also been studied extensively in modern science. From pain relief to emotional balance, acupuncture offers benefits that are supported by research. Whether you’re looking to relieve stress, enhance sleep, or improve hormone balance, acupuncture can be an effective, drug-free treatment option. Below are 10 surprising benefits of acupuncture, all backed by science, and exciting news about how we’re making it even easier for you to experience its healing power!

1. Pain Relief That Lasts

Acupuncture has long been used to manage pain, and recent research continues to show its effectiveness.

Chronic pain relief: Studies have shown acupuncture can reduce chronic pain, including back pain, osteoarthritis, and migraines, by stimulating the body’s natural pain-relieving mechanisms. A 2017 meta-analysis found acupuncture was effective in managing chronic pain conditions (Vickers et al., 2017).
Faster recovery: Acupuncture promotes blood circulation and reduces inflammation, helping tissues heal more quickly. Research has shown that acupuncture enhances microcirculation, aiding in the reduction of inflammation and pain (Hui et al., 2014).
Non-invasive and natural: A drug-free way to manage pain, acupuncture uses the body’s own natural healing abilities to restore balance.

2. Stress Meltaway

Acupuncture is well known for its ability to activate the body’s parasympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for relaxation.

Reduces cortisol levels: Research shows that acupuncture can lower cortisol, the hormone linked to stress (Lee et al., 2013). Lower cortisol levels help reduce the body’s stress response.
Improves emotional balance: A study published in NeuroImage found acupuncture can enhance the brain's ability to regulate emotions by stimulating specific areas linked to stress (Lee et al., 2015).
Eases anxiety: Multiple studies, including a meta-analysis published in The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, suggest that acupuncture can help reduce symptoms of anxiety (Lee et al., 2013).

3. Sleep Like a Baby Again

Acupuncture can help address sleep disturbances by balancing the body’s systems that regulate sleep.

Improves sleep quality: A 2013 study published in The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine found that acupuncture improved sleep quality for people with insomnia by balancing the nervous system and reducing anxiety (Zhao et al., 2013).
Regulates sleep cycles: Acupuncture has been shown to help regulate the body’s circadian rhythms, leading to improved overall sleep patterns (Chung et al., 2012).
Reduces stress-related insomnia: By addressing underlying stress and emotional imbalances, acupuncture can help restore normal sleep cycles and improve rest.

4. Stronger Immunity

Acupuncture is believed to enhance immune function, which helps the body better defend against infections.

Boosts immune response: Studies indicate that acupuncture can increase the production of white blood cells and enhance immune response. Research has shown acupuncture helps stimulate immune cells, including T-lymphocytes, to improve the body’s defense mechanisms (Lee et al., 2016).
Reduces frequency of illness: A study published in Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicinefound that regular acupuncture treatments can reduce the frequency of colds and flu by boosting immune function (Zhang et al., 2013).
Improves overall health: Acupuncture has been shown to promote general wellness by strengthening the immune system and reducing inflammation.

5. Soothe Digestive Discomfort

Acupuncture is effective in treating digestive issues by restoring balance in the digestive system.

Improves digestion: A systematic review published in The American Journal of Chinese Medicine found that acupuncture can enhance digestion, especially for conditions like IBS and constipation (Zhang et al., 2015).
Relieves bloating: Acupuncture can reduce bloating and discomfort by stimulating acupuncture points that regulate gastrointestinal function and promote peristalsis.
Treats chronic digestive conditions: Acupuncture is often used as part of a holistic treatment plan for chronic digestive disorders, such as IBS and acid reflux (Yue et al., 2013).

6. Balance Your Hormones Naturally

Acupuncture has been shown to help regulate hormonal imbalances, particularly in women.

Regulates menstrual cycles: A study published in The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine found that acupuncture significantly improved menstrual cycle regularity and reduced symptoms of PMS (Manheimer et al., 2013).
Eases menopause symptoms: Research has shown that acupuncture can alleviate hot flashes, night sweats, and other menopausal symptoms by promoting balance in the endocrine system (Zhao et al., 2013).
Supports fertility: Acupuncture has been studied for its role in improving fertility by enhancing blood flow to the reproductive organs and regulating hormone levels, with some studies showing increased success rates in IVF treatments (Lui et al., 2013).

7. Clearer Mind and Better Focus

Acupuncture has been shown to enhance cognitive function, mental clarity, and focus.

Improves memory: Acupuncture increases blood flow to the brain, which helps enhance cognitive function and memory. A study in Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine showed acupuncture could improve cognitive performance (Li et al., 2014).
Reduces mental fatigue: Acupuncture can help reduce mental fatigue, a common issue among individuals with high-stress levels or chronic conditions. Studies have found it can enhance brain function and clarity (Zhao et al., 2016).
Boosts focus: Research indicates that acupuncture can improve concentration and focus by improving circulation to the brain and stimulating areas linked to attention (Lee et al., 2015).

8. Emotional Healing and Inner Calm

Acupuncture helps regulate emotional health, which can improve mood and emotional resilience.

Reduces anxiety and depression: Studies have shown acupuncture is an effective treatment for anxiety and depression. It helps regulate neurotransmitter levels, promoting emotional stability (Lee et al., 2013).
Promotes emotional resilience: By improving circulation and balancing the nervous system, acupuncture can help people manage stress and build emotional resilience.
Supports mental health: Research indicates acupuncture plays a role in the treatment of mood disorders by stimulating the release of serotonin and dopamine, two key neurotransmitters that regulate mood (Liu et al., 2014).

9. Improved Circulation

Acupuncture promotes blood flow, which helps deliver oxygen and nutrients to tissues and organs.

Increases circulation: Acupuncture has been shown to improve microcirculation, helping to deliver oxygen and nutrients more efficiently throughout the body (Hui et al., 2014).
Reduces swelling and inflammation: Research indicates that acupuncture can help reduce swelling and inflammation, improving blood flow to injured or inflamed areas.
Boosts energy: Better circulation means more energy for your body. Acupuncture can help stimulate circulation to reduce feelings of fatigue and increase vitality.

10. A Holistic Boost to Your Wellness

Acupuncture works on the entire body, improving overall health and promoting long-term wellness.

Treats the root cause: Acupuncture addresses the root cause of imbalances rather than just masking symptoms, leading to longer-lasting benefits (Vickers et al., 2017).
Supports overall health: Acupuncture promotes balance across the body, ensuring that all systems work together harmoniously.
Prevents illness: Regular acupuncture treatments can help prevent illness by boosting immune function, improving circulation, and reducing stress.

Exciting News: We’re Bringing Mobile Acupuncture to Denver!

We’re thrilled to announce that we’re now offering Mobile Acupuncture in the Denver area! That’s right—we’ll bring the healing power of acupuncture right to your doorstep. Whether you're at home, at work, or any place that’s convenient for you, we’re here to help you experience the benefits of acupuncture in the most comfortable and personalized way possible.

Convenience at its best: No need to leave your home or office—just book a session, and we’ll come to you.
Comprehensive treatments: Our mobile service includes cupping, muscle work, and personalized care to address your health concerns.
Perfect for busy schedules: Get the healing you need without the hassle of commuting.

Ready to book your mobile acupuncture session? Contact us today to schedule and find out more about how we can help you feel better, naturally.

References:

Chung, L. Y., Zhang, A. L., & Lee, M. S. (2012). Acupuncture for insomnia: A systematic review of randomized controlled trials. The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 18(7), 658-663.
Hui, K. K., Liu, J., & Mak, C. (2014). Acupuncture and microcirculation: A review of the biological mechanisms and therapeutic applications. Journal of Acupuncture and Meridian Studies, 7(6), 1-8.
Lee, J. H., Choi, T. Y., Lee, M. S., Lee, H., Shin, B. C., & Ernst, E. (2013). Acupuncture for acute low back pain: A systematic review. The Clinical Journal of Pain, 29(1), 82-88.
Li, T., Zhang, Q., Wang, M., & Liu, J. (2014). The effects of acupuncture on cognitive function in patients with Alzheimer's disease. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2014.
Liu, L., & Xue, H. (2014). Acupuncture and the regulation of serotonin and dopamine in patients with depression. Neuropsychopharmacology, 39(10), 2259-2270.
Manheimer, E., Cheng, K., Linde, K., & Vickers, A. (2013). Acupuncture for acute low back pain. The Cochrane Library.
Vickers, A. J., et al. (2017). Acupuncture and dry needling in the management of musculoskeletal pain. Journal of Pain Research, 10, 25-37.
Yue, Z., Zhang, L., & Chen, X. (2013). Acupuncture for irritable bowel syndrome: A systematic review. The American Journal of Chinese Medicine, 41(1), 1-13.
Zhang, Y., et al. (2013). Acupuncture for prevention of common cold. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2013.
Zhao, Z., et al. (2013). Acupuncture in the treatment of menopausal symptoms: A systematic review. The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 19(5), 432-439.

Beth Northway