nervetrauma

Some studies have shown that acupuncture can encourage nerve regeneration. Since the studies are not conclusive either way, how can you decide whether you want to try acupuncture as part of your treatment? Let’s look at a few studies before delving into that question….

This study is promising, but is based on a single case: http://www.liebertonline.com/doi/abs/10.1089/acm.2005.11.167

This one is a little more in depth: http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m0HKP/is_2001_Summer-Fall/ai_81596687/pg_4?tag=artBody;col1

An exercpt: “After 6 weeks of recovery, we found that the regenerated nerves in both the groups of acupuncture and electroneedling had highly vascularized cross sections in which myelinated axons were numerous in the endoneurial areas.” Yes, this is a GOOD thing! The control group in this study did not do as well. Keep in mind that they were using animals and that we don’t know how many animals were in each group. The larger the cases in a study, the more reliable the results.

And here’s a nice succinct abstract:http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/7650958

Now…some things to keep in mind as you explore treatment options.

1. Acupuncture has been practiced for thousands of years and is widely accepted in many countries, although most health care plans in the USA do not cover it.
2. Because acupuncture practice is not regulated in the same way as medical practice, it’s wise to be even more choosy and get a personal referral, if possible–don’t go to someone who’s been practicing only a few years.
3. If you are committed to your healing, you will want to explore every single possibility. It’s very unlikely acupuncture could hurt you. If you’re nervous about it, ask other people about their experiences.

I had my first experience with acupuncture on November 4. As someone who is terrified of needles, I can testify that it was an anti-climactically unscary experience. My arm felt warm and tingly, not painful at all. I plan on going twice a week. Although my insurance won’t cover this, I can add the cost to my personal injury claim. Also, I’m using a clinic built on a community model, where patients share treatment space and the practitioner can see several at a time. It keeps costs low, and it’s a pleasant atmosphere.

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