Acupuncture for chronic pain is well documented. acupuncture is a NICE recommendation for the treatment of chronic pain, after being shown to reduce pain and increase quality of life (NICE, 2021).
Why is acupuncture so effective in treating pain?
Acupuncture is an effective tool in pain management, becuase it utilises several different mechanisms to bring about relief. Acupuncture can :
modulate how pain is perceived in the brain
increase the secretion of natural painkillers
reduce inflammation
improve muscle stiffness and joint mobility by increasing local microcirculation
aids dispersal of swelling and bruising
down regulate the nervous system.
(Lin, 2022) (Fan, 2024)
Acupuncture for Pain
Pain Management at A D Acupuncture
We support patients in our clinic for an array of pain related conditions, such as migraines, neurological pain, osteo and rheumatoid arthritis, period/pelvic pain, joint pain and injury. To support you effectively, we will need to deep dive into your pain symptoms. We will take the time to understand your experience of pain, your history of the condition, triggers and lifestyle modulators of pain. We will also look at your pain within the broader context of your health. This detailed overview allows us to navigating next steps and long term planning for your pain management. We know that pain management can feel confusing and overwhelming, but we hold you through the process, making you feel balanced, supported and empowered.
A D Acupuncture is designed to support you through every stage of life.
Where many clinics focus on a single moment—fertility, pregnancy, menopause—we honour the full spectrum of your health. Our approach is truly holistic: we look at your current signs and symptoms, but also the story behind them. We consider your past experiences, the health patterns that shaped you, and the future you want to move toward.
Led by acupuncturist and researcher, Alice Douglas. Alice holds a Masters of Science degree in Women’s Health from University College London. She is a Member of the British Acupuncture Council, a published author in the Journal of Chinese Medicine, and a Lecturer at the City College of Acupuncture. Alice is born and raised in South East London, and loves working in the heart of the community in Brockley.
References:
Fan, Z., Dou, B., Wang, J., Wu, Y., Du, S., Li, J., Yao, K., Li, Y., Wang, S., Gong, Y., Guo, Y., & Xu, Z. (2024). Effects and mechanisms of acupuncture analgesia mediated by afferent nerves in acupoint microenvironments. Frontiers in neuroscience, 17, 1239839.
Lin, J. G., Kotha, P., & Chen, Y. H. (2022). Understandings of acupuncture application and mechanisms. American journal of translational research, 14(3), 1469–1481.
NICE (2021) Chronic pain (primary and secondary) in over 16s: assessment of all chronic pain and management of chronic primary pain. National Institute for Health and Care Excellence Guidelines