Pain
Whole-systems Traditional Chinese Medicine (WS-TCM) offers a comprehensive approach to treating and managing pain, including common ailments such as neck pain, back pain, shoulder pain, knee pain, and various other types of pain. WS-TCM views pain as a manifestation of imbalances within the body's Qi (vital energy) and blood circulation, as well as disruptions in the flow of meridians or channels. According to Whole Systems Traditional Chinese Medicine (WS-TCM), pain can be acute or chronic. Acute pain, usually resulting from injury, requires herbal and acupuncture treatments to move and release the discomfort. Chronic pain involves a focus on nourishing and supporting the body to relieve distress.
Traditional Chinese Medicine is uniquely helpful with pain because it increases circulation and releases endorphins. With 50+ years of combined experience, we have treated countless states of pain. Some of the problematic conditions we see and treat regularly include:
Pelvic pain
Headaches and migraines
Knee pain
Shoulder pain
Back pain
Joint pain
Neck pain
Growing pains
Nerve pain
How Can Traditional Chinese Medicine Treat Pain?
Acupuncture for Pain Relief
Acupuncture is one of the primary modalities used in WS-TCM for treating pain. By inserting fine needles into specific acupoints along the body's meridians, acupuncture stimulates the flow of Qi and blood, promoting the body's natural healing mechanisms and alleviating pain. For neck pain, back pain, shoulder pain, and knee pain, acupoints located along the affected meridians are targeted to address local pain and discomfort. Additionally, acupuncture points on distant meridians may be used to regulate systemic imbalances and provide holistic pain relief.
Chinese Herbal Remedies
Herbal medicine is another modality used in WS-TCM treatment for pain management. We will prescribe you customized herbal formulas tailored to your unique pattern of disharmony and pain presentation. These herbal remedies often include a combination of herbs known for their analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and muscle-relaxant properties. For example, herbs such as turmeric, ginger, frankincense, and myrrh may be used to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain. Herbal formulas work synergistically to address both the root causes of pain and associated symptoms, providing comprehensive and long-lasting relief.
Dietary Support & Recomendations
In addition to acupuncture and herbal medicine, WS-TCM treatment for pain may incorporate dietary therapy to support healing and reduce inflammation. WS-TCM dietary recommendations often include consuming nourishing foods that promote circulation, such as warming soups, stews, and herbal teas. Foods with anti-inflammatory properties, such as fatty fish, leafy greens, berries, and nuts, may also be emphasized to help alleviate pain and support overall well-being. Avoiding inflammatory foods such as processed sugars, refined carbohydrates, and trans fats can further reduce pain and inflammation. Treatment includes nutrition support as it is fundamental to healing the body properly.
Stress Reduction Techniques can also Help Reduce Pain
Stress reduction techniques such as meditation, qigong, and tai chi are commonly recommended to promote relaxation, improve circulation, and reduce muscle tension. Regular physical activity, including gentle exercises such as yoga and walking, can help maintain flexibility, strengthen muscles, and prevent pain flare-ups. Yin yoga, a long-held, slower yoga is another good exercise as it slowly stretches deep joints, ligaments, and fibrous tissues. These specific positions are held longer, allowing time to turn inward and self-reflect. Additionally, adequate sleep and proper ergonomics are emphasized to support optimal musculoskeletal health and reduce the risk of pain recurrence.
Experiencing Pregnancy Related Pain?
If you are experiencing pregnancy-related pain such as sciatica, a pregnancy massage may help. Learn more about Tui Na, a recommended prenatal massage that helps reduce pregnancy-related symptoms including pain and discomfort.
Your Next Steps Towards Reducing Pain
Consultations explore not only injuries and onset of pain, but any underlying conditions that may be contributing to or causing the issue. Treatment may include acupuncture, herbs, and other adjunct therapies such as tui na (massage), cupping, ozone therapy, and TDP (heat therapy). Relief typically comes with the first visit and continues to build throughout treatment.
Several famous individuals have turned to Whole-Systems Traditional Chinese Medicine (WS-TCM) to manage and alleviate their pain. Among them, actor Robert Downey Jr. has openly discussed his use of acupuncture, a key component of WS-TCM, to address chronic pain resulting from injuries sustained during his career. Additionally, former NBA star Yao Ming has credited acupuncture and other TCM modalities for helping him manage the pain associated with sports-related injuries and maintain his physical well-being throughout his basketball career.
It’s important to treat pain as early as possible. Left untreated, minor discomfort such as neck pain can lead to postural or gait changes that create lasting harm. Pain is our body’s clearest warning sign that something needs to be addressed to prevent future issues.
Our board-certified staff is highly experienced and excited to help you begin your healing journey. Read our patient reviews in the ‘reviews’ button below, on Google, or Yelp. That way you can understand why our Brooklyn community loves us, and why we are the best acupuncture in Park Slope. We have 40+ years of experience and have so many incredible healing stories. Step into the office and see why we make a difference in the lives of our patients.
— J.J.J., Brooklyn
