We’re pleased to share this blog post from our acupuncturist, Jampa Stewart, who has been practicing acupuncture for over 30 years. In this article, Jampa recounts his personal journey—from a martial arts injury that first introduced him to acupuncture, to the current scientific understanding of how this time-tested technique can bring relief for a wide range of conditions.
A Personal Story That Sparked a Career
My fascination with acupuncture began in the 1980s after a severe fall during martial arts training left me barely able to walk. A friend, who had recently become an acupuncturist, treated me with just two thin needles near the injured area. To my surprise, nearly all the pain and stiffness disappeared instantly, transforming my perception of how the body heals. This remarkable recovery ultimately led me to embrace acupuncture as a primary modality in my own practice.
The Science Behind Acupuncture
Acupuncture involves the insertion of ultra-thin, solid needles into specific points on the body to stimulate the flow of qi (energy) and restore balance. Modern research now confirms acupuncture’s ability to:
- Trigger Endorphin Release: The body’s natural “opioids” help reduce pain and promote well-being.
- Regulate the Nervous System: Acupuncture can positively affect stress, anxiety, and depression by modulating neurological responses.
- Reduce Inflammation: The National Institutes of Health (NIH) acknowledges acupuncture’s anti-inflammatory effects in the immune, digestive, respiratory, nervous, and several other bodily systems.
Overcoming the Fear of Needles
For those uneasy about needles, it’s important to note that acupuncture needles are incredibly thin—often likened to a single strand of hair—and they’re solid rather than hollow. In fact, 20 to 30 acupuncture needles could fit inside one typical syringe needle. Most people experience mild or no pain upon insertion, and many even become so relaxed during treatment that they fall asleep.
Addressing the Opioid Crisis
An estimated 40–78% of doctor’s visits are related to pain, making it one of the most common medical concerns. While opioids were historically a go-to for pain management, they carry a significant risk of addiction and overdose. Acupuncture, on the other hand, is non-addictive, effective, and has minimal side effects. In recognition of its benefits, Medicare now covers acupuncture for low back pain—likely a first step toward broader coverage for other pain conditions.
What Acupuncture Can Treat
Though often associated with pain relief, acupuncture offers a wide spectrum of therapeutic benefits. The World Health Organization (WHO) recognizes its effectiveness for over 100 conditions, such as:
- Chronic Pain & Headaches: Back pain, neck pain, and migraines
- Digestive Issues: IBS, gastritis, and constipation
- Urinary & Reproductive Health: Menstrual cramps, infertility, menopausal symptoms
- Mental & Emotional Health: Anxiety, depression, stress, and insomnia
- Cancer Treatment Side Effects: Nausea, fatigue, generalized pain
- High Blood Pressure & Addictions: Supports cardiovascular health and aids in managing withdrawal symptoms
Additionally, acupuncture can benefit cardiovascular, dermatological, neurological, and psychological conditions.
Women’s Health and Fertility
Research published in the British Medical Journal indicates that acupuncture may increase in-vitro fertilization (IVF) success rates, especially when previous embryo implantations have failed. Moreover, debilitating menstrual cramps, commonly accepted by many women as a monthly burden, often improve or disappear within two to three treatment cycles—particularly when combined with Chinese herbal remedies.
Headache and Migraine Relief
Acupuncture is also highly regarded for headache and migraine management. A Cochrane Review of clinical trials demonstrated strong evidence that acupuncture can reduce both the severity and frequency of migraines, making it a compelling alternative or complementary treatment to standard medications.
A Collaborative Future in Healthcare
Western and Eastern medicine each have strengths and limitations. By working together—combining diagnostic tools and surgical expertise with the holistic approach of acupuncture—patients benefit from more comprehensive care. This integrated strategy can reduce dependency on medications while improving outcomes, underscoring acupuncture’s lasting relevance in the 21st century.
If you’re curious about acupuncture for pain relief or want to explore how this ancient therapy might help with other conditions, consider scheduling a consultation to learn more about what acupuncture can do for you.
