Did you know that acupuncture can assist women experiencing moderate to severe menopausal symptoms? Liz Lee, LAc, EAMP, Licensed Acupuncturist, East Asian Medicine Practitioner, and Certified Qigong Instructor at Summit Therapy & Health Services enjoys partnering with women to help alleviate their menopausal symptoms and discomfort through acupuncture treatments.
What is acupuncture?
Acupuncture involves the use of small needles to stimulate nerves, muscles, and tissues to achieve desired outcomes. This stimulation causes the body to release pain-relieving chemicals like endorphins, which in turn help alleviate symptoms associated with a variety of medical conditions, including menopause.
The concept of ‘Qi’ (energy or breath) is very integral to Traditional Chinese Medicine; Qi exists in all living things. As a result of injury, disease, aging, stress, or poor lifestyle, Qi flow can become blocked or reduced leading to less than optimal health. The fine needles used in acupuncture can help adjust and correct proper flow of Qi so that the body can recalibrate back to wellness.
Does acupuncture hurt?
When hearing the term ‘acupuncture’ some people get nervous- will it hurt? “Because the acupuncture needles are so small and thin, most people find the experience painless,” says Lee. The treatment is meant to be a relaxing experience- it’s not uncommon for people to fall asleep while the treatment is being performed.
How does acupuncture help with menopause symptoms?
“As we age, the yin and yang energetics of the body shift along with our hormones,” says Lee. Women often experience increased dryness due to more heat and less moisture in their bodies- this can lead to multiple other issues such as hot flashes, night sweats, poor sleep, poor memory, and dry skin. She adds that, “acupuncture helps by re-establishing the yin and yang balance. It encourages the body to find its new equilibrium for this second phase of a woman’s life.”
Acupuncture can help ease severe menopause symptoms such as: hot flashes, night sweats, pain, mood swings, anxiety, insomnia, fatigue, and poor memory.
Acupuncture works best when combined with healthy lifestyle changes such as a well-rounded diet, regular movement, and sufficient sleep. Not only do these things contribute to the success of acupuncture treatment, but they are great ways for women to help their bodies progress through menopause as well.
What does an acupuncture treatment plan look like?
For best results, it’s recommended to try acupuncture for a series of at least three sessions, about a week apart. Sometimes it takes a few sessions for the body to respond to the treatment. Most insurances do not require a referral for acupuncture services, but it’s best to contact your insurance provider for information.
For more information about acupuncture services and to make an appointment, contact Summit Therapy & Health Services at (509) 332-5106.
Originally posted on October 11, 2022
Last updated on October 1, 2024
