Vital News Article
Chronic Pain and Chinese Medicine
Understanding Chronic Pain
Chronic pain is generally defined as pain that persists for longer than 12 weeks, although even pain lasting a few weeks can have a significant impact on daily life. Ongoing pain may affect movement, sleep, work, recreation and overall wellbeing. Some people also experience changes in mood, increased stress, or difficulty managing everyday activities while living with persistent pain.
Managing chronic pain often requires an individualised approach that considers a person's symptoms, lifestyle, medical history and goals.
A Whole-Person Approach to Pain Management
There are many evidence-informed approaches that may form part of a chronic pain management plan. Depending on the individual, these may include medical care, medication, exercise, education, lifestyle modifications and complementary healthcare.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is a healthcare system that has been practised for thousands of years. It includes a range of therapies such as acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, therapeutic massage, dietary advice and lifestyle recommendations. These therapies are used within the principles of Chinese medicine and may be incorporated into a broader healthcare plan where appropriate.
Acupuncture and Chronic Pain
Acupuncture is commonly used by people seeking support for a variety of musculoskeletal pain conditions. Research suggests acupuncture may assist with the management of some chronic pain conditions as part of an overall treatment plan, although individual responses vary.
Depending on your presentation, acupuncture may be considered for conditions such as:
Your practitioner will complete a thorough assessment before determining whether acupuncture is appropriate for your individual circumstances. If required, you may also be advised to seek assessment from your GP or another healthcare provider.
Lifestyle Factors That May Influence Pain
Persistent pain is often influenced by a range of physical, psychological and lifestyle factors. As part of your care, your practitioner may discuss strategies that support your overall health, including:
These recommendations are tailored to your individual needs and are designed to complement your broader healthcare plan.
Our Approach at Vital Acupuncture & Massage
At Vital Acupuncture & Massage in Belrose, we take the time to understand your symptoms, health history and treatment goals. Our practitioners provide personalised care using evidence-informed acupuncture and traditional Chinese medicine principles, while working within our professional scope of practice.
Where appropriate, we may also recommend massage therapy, movement advice or referral to another healthcare professional to support your ongoing care.
Book an Appointment
If you're experiencing persistent pain and would like to discuss whether acupuncture may be appropriate for you, contact Vital Acupuncture & Massage in Belrose to arrange an assessment. We'll work with you to develop an individualised management plan that supports your health goals.
References
Evidence-Based Evaluation of Complementary Health Approaches for Pain Management in the United States. Nahin RL, Boineau R, Khalsa PS, Stussman BJ, Weber WJ. Mayo Clin Proc. 2016 Sep;91(9):1292-306.
Chronic pain is generally defined as pain that persists for longer than 12 weeks, although even pain lasting a few weeks can have a significant impact on daily life. Ongoing pain may affect movement, sleep, work, recreation and overall wellbeing. Some people also experience changes in mood, increased stress, or difficulty managing everyday activities while living with persistent pain.
Managing chronic pain often requires an individualised approach that considers a person's symptoms, lifestyle, medical history and goals.
A Whole-Person Approach to Pain Management
There are many evidence-informed approaches that may form part of a chronic pain management plan. Depending on the individual, these may include medical care, medication, exercise, education, lifestyle modifications and complementary healthcare.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is a healthcare system that has been practised for thousands of years. It includes a range of therapies such as acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, therapeutic massage, dietary advice and lifestyle recommendations. These therapies are used within the principles of Chinese medicine and may be incorporated into a broader healthcare plan where appropriate.
Acupuncture and Chronic Pain
Acupuncture is commonly used by people seeking support for a variety of musculoskeletal pain conditions. Research suggests acupuncture may assist with the management of some chronic pain conditions as part of an overall treatment plan, although individual responses vary.
Depending on your presentation, acupuncture may be considered for conditions such as:
- Low back pain
- Neck pain
- Sciatica
- Shoulder pain
- Knee osteoarthritis
- Plantar heel pain
- Some types of headache and migraine
Your practitioner will complete a thorough assessment before determining whether acupuncture is appropriate for your individual circumstances. If required, you may also be advised to seek assessment from your GP or another healthcare provider.
Lifestyle Factors That May Influence Pain
Persistent pain is often influenced by a range of physical, psychological and lifestyle factors. As part of your care, your practitioner may discuss strategies that support your overall health, including:
- Physical activity and appropriate exercise
- Sleep habits
- Stress management
- Diet and nutrition
- Ergonomics and posture
- Self-management strategies
These recommendations are tailored to your individual needs and are designed to complement your broader healthcare plan.
Our Approach at Vital Acupuncture & Massage
At Vital Acupuncture & Massage in Belrose, we take the time to understand your symptoms, health history and treatment goals. Our practitioners provide personalised care using evidence-informed acupuncture and traditional Chinese medicine principles, while working within our professional scope of practice.
Where appropriate, we may also recommend massage therapy, movement advice or referral to another healthcare professional to support your ongoing care.
Book an Appointment
If you're experiencing persistent pain and would like to discuss whether acupuncture may be appropriate for you, contact Vital Acupuncture & Massage in Belrose to arrange an assessment. We'll work with you to develop an individualised management plan that supports your health goals.
References
Evidence-Based Evaluation of Complementary Health Approaches for Pain Management in the United States. Nahin RL, Boineau R, Khalsa PS, Stussman BJ, Weber WJ. Mayo Clin Proc. 2016 Sep;91(9):1292-306.
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