Though acupuncture may seem like an “out-there” alternative remedy, it has been utilized for thousands of years and has been the subject of many scientific studies that have proven its efficacy. Electroacupuncture is just the most recent development of this long-standing practice. Though you may not like the idea of becoming a human pincushion, you may want to consider electroacupuncture, especially if you desire to reset your hormones and help restore your body to a state of balance.
What is electroacupuncture?
You’ve likely heard of acupuncture, one of the hallmarks of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) that is used to help heal and rebalance the energies in the body. Electroacupuncture is a more modern take on the practice of utilizing electricity to stimulate the pressure points rather than the manual manipulation of standard acupuncture.
As in acupuncture, electroacupuncture is believed to activate the “qi” or life force of a person’s body. Practitioners of TCM believe that this life force runs along meridians in the body that have corresponding pressure points, which can be activated through acupuncture to relieve chronic pain or illness. This is thought to restart the flow of qi and restore the body to a natural state of balance and harmony. Electroacupuncture is simply an alternative method of accomplishing the same goal as traditional acupuncture.
It is slightly modified to use two needles in conjunction rather than one, with an electric current that passes between them during the treatment session. It is generally thought to be a more effective form of this ancient treatment because the electrical current provides a consistent stimulation of the pressure points that cannot be achieved through traditional methods like twirling the needles.
What is it used for?
Electroacupuncture has proven effective in many studies as a treatment for chronic pain, nausea, chronic stress, and arthritis, imbalanced hormones, and more.
How can it reset your hormones?
Hormones are a particularly tricky subject and vary so widely between people that there is no one-size-fits-all solution to issues of hormone imbalance. Many people try numerous treatment plans before finding something that works for them, so if you are struggling with imbalanced hormones, it is important to be patient and work with a healthcare provider that is willing to listen to your symptoms and treat you as an individual patient with a unique body.
Thankfully, there is promising research to suggest that electroacupuncture could be a viable option for those struggling with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), which is a condition that affects the menstrual cycle and hormone production in women. It may help alleviate another hormone-related condition as well known as primary ovarian insufficiency (POI), which can cause a woman’s ovaries to stop functioning before shes turns 40.
Acupuncture isn’t just helpful for managing reproductive hormones like estrogen; it can also help with things like thyroid and adrenal function and restore your endocrine system to full power. It is totally natural, safe, and without any of the nasty side effects of chemical hormone-balancing medication. Instead of forcing the body to do anything, electroacupuncture simply redirects energy to help the body heal itself.
Many acupuncturists will also recommend specific exercises and herbal tea blends that are helpful in dealing with the above conditions. Remember, healing takes time, so it is important to stick with the treatment and give your body a chance to recover. If you are struggling with any of the above conditions, it may be wise to find an acupuncturist in your area and give electroacupuncture a shot. It could bust your chronic pain and give your hormones the kickstart they need.
Is it safe?
You probably heard the words “electric current” and “needles” and wondered why anyone would willingly subject themselves to such a seemingly dangerous therapy. Don’t worry; it is totally safe when practiced by a trained professional, and there is no more risk presented than the risks associated with traditional acupuncture.
In electroacupuncture, the electric current isn’t actually transmitted through the body, just between the needles, which means that the patient doesn’t experience any pain, only a slight pulsating feeling. The typical session lasts around 10-20 minutes, which is a totally safe time frame. Be sure to tell your acupuncturist if you experience any pain.
You should not use electroacupuncture if you:
- Are pregnant
- Have heart disease
- Have had a stroke
- Have a pacemaker
- Have epilepsy
- Experience seizures