Orthopedic + Sports Acupuncture

For acute pain, post-operative care, sports, and repetitive use injuries, acupuncture is very effective at decreasing inflammation, swelling and encouraging more rapid healing or recovery time.

Aside from being a method for treating injuries, acupuncture is also great at preventing them. Treatments can be directed to create more flexibility and circulation in areas of concern, which in turn will help prevent stress on the muscles/joints/tendons/ligaments, which may reduce the possibility of an injury or additional injury to that area. There are many that are not aware of this, but many professional teams have acupuncturists that provide treatment for their athletes to enhance performance and to rehabilitate any injuries that have occurred during the game.

The treatment method for these types of concerns usually incorporates a mixture of a few techniques: main and extraordinary meridian theory, specific orthopedic needling styles, muscle motor points, needling near nerve pathways, and balance method.

Reduce Pain – Studies on the mechanisms of action have revealed that endogenous opioid peptides/endorphins in the central nervous system play an essential role in the analgesic effect of acupuncture. This can have a morphine-like effect on the body.

Reduce Inflammation & Swelling/Speed Healing Process – Recent studies have shown that the anti-inflammatory actions of acupuncture are mediated via the reflexive central inhibition of the innate immune system.  ACTH [adrenocorticotrophic hormone] and cortisol are also influenced by acupuncture, which contributes to the anti-inflammatory and stress relieving effects.

Improve Range of Motion – By stimulating the area of the muscle with the most nerve endings (motor points), dysfunctional muscles that are in spasm, or not firing properly will be relaxed and lengthen.

Reduce scar tissue and adhesions – Scar tissue can cause limited range of motion, pain, and restriction of the circulation of vital fluids in the body. Our bodies form scar tissue in response to misuse, overuse, surgery, and trauma/injury. Acupuncture and gua sha may help to break up scar tissue, adhesions, and fascial restrictions.

Please also visit the pain management and chronic pain page for related information.