Chinese Acupuncture For Neck Pain

Chinese Acupuncture for neck pain involves the insertion of small needles into the skin to reduce or eliminate pain and improve mobility in the cervical region of the spine. Chinese acupuncture is often used to care for problems such as whiplash, muscle stiffness, and facet arthritis (facet syndrome).

Chinese acupuncturists rely on channels called meridians, which they believe serve as pathways for the flow of energy throughout the body. Acupuncturists recognize 12 main meridians and several minor ones. Along these meridians are hundreds of acupuncture points. Acupuncturists believe that the body's energy flows very close to the surface of the skin at these specific points.

The first session with an acupuncture specialist begins with a consultation to figure out the problem with a history and physical to create a tailored plan for treatment. The actual treatments being with acupuncture needles being placed in the neck region along the meridians of the cervical spine. The needles may also be placed around the patient's ears for pain relief.

During the procedure, patients lay face down on a comfortable table and the treatment areas are sterilized. The acupuncturist then carefully inserts needles into various skin areas. the acupuncturist may also attach a device called an electrical nerve stimulator, which sends small electrical impulses which can provide substantial pain relief and increase the effectiveness of the treatment. This is similar to a TENS unit treatment.

The acupuncturist's goal is to restore the proper balance of energy throughout the body. Acupuncture is safe and can by highly effective. Best results are typically achieved with multiple treatments.