The recent fires in our corner of Los Angeles have left deep emotional wounds across the community. Many of our patients have experienced profound loss, leading to Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). In such trying times, acupuncture stands out as a powerful option for those striving to navigate the psychological aftermath of trauma.
Understanding PTSD
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) arises after experiencing or witnessing traumatic events. It can manifest through symptoms like:
flashbacks
intense anxiety
insomnia
nightmares
persistent intrusive thoughts about the event
Our nervous systems are in shock from the images, in person and on television, and from the sheer magnitude of devastation. Everybody knows someone who has been affected.
The Role of Acupuncture in Treating PTSD
Scientific Evidence Supporting Acupuncture for PTSD
Numerous studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of acupuncture in treating PTSD. In a prominent study published in The Journal of Nervous and Mental Disease, participants receiving regular acupuncture treatments showed a notable reduction in PTSD symptoms.
Specifically, the frequency of flashbacks dropped by nearly 50%, and sleep quality improved by 60% among those receiving acupuncture.
Furthermore, acupuncture appears to influence neurotransmitter levels in the brain, particularly serotonin and dopamine. Both are essential for regulating mood. Enhancing these levels can support individuals striving to regain emotional balance during recovery from trauma.
Research shows that after a series of acupuncture sessions, 80% of participants reported feeling more relaxed and resilient in managing their stress.
How it works
Acupuncture acts on areas of the brain known to reduce sensitivity to pain and stress, as well as promoting relaxation and deactivating the ‘analytical’ brain, which is responsible for anxiety and worry
Regulates levels of neurotransmitters and hormones such as serotonin, noradrenaline, dopamine, GABA, neuropeptide Y and ACTH; thus changing the brain’s chemistry to alleviate negative states
Stimulates the production of endogenous opioids that affect the autonomic nervous system. Stress activates the "fight or flight" nervous system, while acupuncture can activate the opposite system, called parasympathetic.
Reduces inflammatory cytokines that are associated with stress reactions.
Get compassionate care at taproot acupuncture
Dr. Bento is also a license yoga teacher and knows many breathing techniques to help you cope with panic, stress and trauma.
We have fought in the flames first hand, saving 3 houses from burning down, so we know exactly how bad it is. We got you.
Sources:
Tang X, Lin S, Fang D, Lin B, Yao L, Wang L, Xu Q, Lu L, Xu N. Efficacy and underlying mechanisms of acupuncture therapy for PTSD: evidence from animal and clinical studies. Front Behav Neurosci. 2023 May 2;17:1163718. doi: 10.3389/fnbeh.2023.1163718. PMID: 37200784; PMCID: PMC10187757.
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