Pain treated by acupuncture

Painful conditions that can be treated by acupuncture

Acupuncture is a versatile, evidence-based therapy widely recognised by international health organisations for its effectiveness in managing a broad spectrum of painful conditions.

Musculoskeletal & Joint Pain

Acupuncture is highly effective for reducing inflammation and muscle tension in these areas: 

• Low Back Pain: Recommended as a first-line, non-pharmacological treatment for both acute and chronic lower back issues.
• Neck and Shoulder Pain: Treats chronic neck pain, muscle spasms, frozen shoulder (periarthritis), and rotator cuff issues.
• Osteoarthritis: Particularly effective for knee, hip, and hand joint pain and stiffness.
• Tennis and Golfer’s Elbow: Relieves persistent pain from lateral epicondylitis and repetitive strain.
• Sports Injuries: Speeds recovery from sprains, strains, and tendonitis (e.g., Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis). 

Headaches & Neurological Pain 

Many patients seek acupuncture to reduce the frequency and severity of head and nerve-related discomfort: 

• Migraines: Effective for both preventing episodic migraines and reducing the intensity of active episodes.
• Tension-Type Headaches: Proven to reduce the frequency of chronic daily headaches.
• Sciatica: Relieves the radiating nerve pain and numbness associated with compressed lumbar nerves.
• Facial Pain & TMJ: Addresses jaw pain, temporomandibular joint dysfunction, and trigeminal neuralgia.
• Neuropathy: Manages tingling or burning sensations from peripheral neuropathy or post-herpetic neuralgia (shingles). 

Specialised Pain Conditions

Acupuncture is also used for internal and systemic pain: 

• Fibromyalgia: Helps manage widespread muscle pain and fatigue associated with this chronic condition.
• Menstrual Cramps (Dysmenorrhoea): Clinically shown to reduce the intensity of primary menstrual pain.
• Postoperative Pain: Used as an adjunct to conventional care to reduce reliance on opioid medications after surgery.
• Digestive Pain: Eases discomfort from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), gastritis, and biliary or renal colic.
• Dental Pain: Recognized for relieving pain after dental surgery or extractions. 

For more information or to book a consultation, you can visit https://lyndathompson.co.za/book-appointment/. 

Frequently Asked Questions: Acupuncture for Pain Relief

• Which painful conditions can acupuncture treat?
  Acupuncture is widely used for Pain Management involving both acute and chronic conditions. Common issues treated include:
  • Musculoskeletal: Back and neck pain, sciatica, arthritis, joint pain, and sports injuries.
  • Neurological: Migraines, tension headaches, and neuralgia.
  • Women’s Health: Painful periods and discomfort during pregnancy.
  • Other: Postoperative pain and fibromyalgia.
• How does acupuncture actually stop the pain?
  From a Western perspective, acupuncture works by stimulating nerves, muscles, and connective tissue. This triggers the release of the body’s natural painkillers, such as endorphins and enkephalins, and can modulate the autonomic nervous system to promote relaxation and reduce inflammation.
• Does the treatment hurt?
  The needles used are ultra-fine—comparable to a strand of hair—and should not be painful. You might feel a slight tingle, warmth, or a dull ache (known as De Qi), which is generally considered a sign that the treatment is effective.
• How many sessions will I need before my pain improves?
  Response times vary. Acute injuries (like a sprained ankle) may respond in 1–3 sessions, while chronic conditions like long-standing back pain or migraines typically require a course of 3–6 sessions to see significant results.
• What can I expect during my first visit?
  Your first consultation involves a thorough health assessment, including questions about your medical history, sleep, and lifestyle. Dr Thompson may also examine your pulse and tongue to formulate a personalized treatment plan that including acupuncture,  or Cupping therapy.
• Are there any side effects?
  Acupuncture is very safe when performed by a qualified professional. Some patients feel calm or slightly tired afterward, and occasionally there may be minor bruising or soreness at the needle site, which typically fades quickly.