When you need medical attention, you most likely seek Western treatments to relieve your symptoms—but Eastern medicine practices like acupuncture can also offer significant health and wellness benefits. When residents of Nyack, NY, are looking for a powerful way to enhance their sense of well-being, they count on Marie Gonzales, L.Ac. Below, this licensed acupuncturist explains why these treatments are a valuable addition to any health regimen.

Your Guide to the Benefits of Acupuncture

Soothing Effects

Acupuncture builds on the idea that energy, also known as Qi, travels throughout the body along paths called meridians. If the Qi can flow without interruption, it means your body is in good health. However, if the meridians are obstructed, it means that your body has contracted a disease and you may experience pain. Acupuncture balances the Qi flow, soothing your pain and stimulating the body's natural ability to mend. This form of therapy has proven to be very effective in alleviating ailments such as migraines, arthritis, and the effects of chemotherapy.

Pain Relief

These treatments target pressure points along or near major nerves. When stimulated electrically by an acupuncturist, the points release impulses through the spinal cord that instruct the brain to release serotonin, endorphins, and dopamine. The body naturally produces these chemicals to eliminate or alter the pain signals being delivered to the brain. When released, they improve your emotional and physical state and improve your quality of life.

Symptom Management

Studies have unveiled evidence that acupuncture is an effective treatment for many health and wellness issues. For example, these treatments are believed to counteract the inflammatory effects of various diseases and can help relieve muscle strain and spasms. Acupuncture has also been reported as a successful treatment for people living with insomnia, anxiety, stress, and depression. Moreover, patients with nausea and vomiting, dry mouth, fatigue, and peripheral neuropathy conditions also benefit from working with an acupuncturist.

Acupuncture is an effective medical practice, but this does not mean it should be used as a replacement for allopathic, or Western, medicine. Instead, the two should complement each other. When you’re ready to see an acupuncturist in person, call Marie Gonzales, L.Ac., at (845) 398-1312. You can also visit her website to learn more about your treatment options.