Photo by Chris F from Pexels
When it comes to healing bone, most people immediately think of traditional medical interventions, such as surgery, casts, or physical therapy. However, an age-old practice that has been gaining attention in recent years for its potential in aiding the healing process is acupuncture.
UNDERSTANDING ACUPUNCTURE
The needles used in acupuncture are extremely thin and are inserted into the skin at precise locations. The goal is to trigger a physiological response that promotes healing and reduces pain. While acupuncture is often associated with alleviating pain, it has also shown potential in the treatment of various conditions, including bone fractures and deep bone pain.
THE ROLE OF ACUPUNCTURE IN HEALING BONE FRACTURES
Acupuncture's role in healing bones is a topic of ongoing research, and the results are promising. Here are several ways in which acupuncture may contribute to the healing process:
1. PAIN MANAGEMENT
One of the most immediate benefits of acupuncture for individuals with bone fractures is pain relief. By targeting specific acupuncture points, the therapy can stimulate the release of endorphins and other natural pain-relieving substances, making the recovery process more bearable.
2. IMPROVED BLOOD FLOW
Acupuncture is believed to enhance blood circulation. Improved blood flow to the fractured area can help deliver essential nutrients and oxygen to the injured bone, potentially accelerating the healing process.
3. REDUCED INFLAMMATION
Inflammation is a natural response to bone fractures, but excessive inflammation can impede the healing process. Acupuncture may help reduce inflammation by promoting the body's anti-inflammatory responses, allowing the body to focus on repairing the bone. By adding electric stimulation to the needles as well as moxibustion (an herbal heat treatment) the lymph system is stimulated, in turn reducing pockets of swelling.
4. ENHANCED RELAXATION
Stress and tension can negatively impact the body's ability to heal. Acupuncture is well-known for promoting relaxation and reducing stress, which can aid in the healing process by allowing the body to allocate more resources to recovery.
5. ENHANCED IMMUNE FUNCTION
Acupuncture has been linked to a boost in immune system function. A stronger immune response can help the body fight off potential infections that may complicate the healing of bone fractures.
6. ADDING BONE LINIMENT
I have a wonderful liniment available affectionately called “Evil Bone Water” (how appropriate for Halloween!) which is actually called Zheng Gu Shui, a Chinese hand-crafted empirical grade herbal liniment for not only healing bone, bone pain, but also tendino-muscular pain and it works amazingly well!
The research done on acupuncture for aiding in bone fractures is promising. Several studies have shown that acupuncture can significantly reduce pain and inflammation in individuals recovering from bone fractures. It's important to note that acupuncture should not be seen as a replacement for traditional medical treatments like surgery or casting. Instead, it should be considered a complementary therapy that can work in conjunction with conventional medical care.
Before seeking acupuncture treatment for a bone fracture, it is crucial to consult with a qualified and experienced acupuncturist. They will assess your specific condition and tailor the treatment to your needs. Furthermore, it's essential to continue with any prescribed medical treatments, such as immobilization with casts or surgical procedures, as recommended by your orthopedic specialist.
Healing bone fractures with acupuncture is an exciting and evolving field of study. While it is not a replacement for traditional medical interventions, it can be a valuable complementary therapy. By addressing pain, inflammation, and stress, acupuncture may contribute to a more comfortable and efficient healing process for individuals recovering from bone fractures. As research in this area continues to grow, acupuncture's role in orthopedic care may become even more prominent, bridging the gap between ancient wisdom and modern medicine.