Acupuncture and Pain Management: Thrive Integrative Medicine and the Weaving of Classical Acupuncture

Acupuncture has gained recognition as a viable alternative for pain management, offering relief for many who struggle with chronic pain conditions. At Thrive Integrative Medicine we have developed a unique approach to acupuncture that not only addresses pain but also looks to address health concerns across multiple systems in the body. In this blog post, we will explore how our methods differ from traditional practices, the science behind acupuncture, and how you can benefit from our services.

Understanding Acupuncture

Acupuncture is an ancient practice rooted in East Asian Medicine with synthesis in the modern era under the name Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Acupuncture has roots that are much deeper than what is typically taught in modern acupuncture insitutions, with Classical Acupuncture roots going back many thousands of years. Acupuncture is the insertion of thin filiorm needles into specific points on the body. In the modern era it is described commonly as a way to stimulate energy flow, known as "Qi" ('chee'), with the aim to restore balance and promote healing.

The Anatomy of the Neijing: Weaving Ancient Wisdom with Biophysiology in Acupuncture

At Thrive, Dr. Tyler Andres utilizes Classical Neijing Acupuncture. While many people are familiar with the modern, standardized version known as Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), our approach stems from a push towards the original roots of the practice found in the Huangdi Neijing (The Yellow Emperor's Inner Canon).

The distinction: modern TCM often treats 'energy meridians' through points along the body, the Neijing describes a sophisticated map of actual physical anatomy.

Meridians as Myofascial Planes

In our clinic we still understand the importance of 'meridians' as myofascial planes, which is not to diminish the understanding that the body is in fact 'magical.' From your first breath to your last breath your nervous system is humming with electrical activity that animates a never-ending pulse through your heart, lungs that ventilate and detox your body without any thought around the process, and a digestive system that converts nutrition into cellular animation. It is easy to understand how acupuncture can help with a tight muscle, but how does acupuncture interact with the gretater body at large? How does the insertion of a pin in the leg or arm affect the internal systems in the body? The answer is in the fascial network and nervous system that links the entire body as one.

Right arm myofascial continuity

Fascia is the continuous web of connective tissue that wraps every muscle, bone, and organ. Research has shown that over 80% of classical acupuncture points correspond directly to intermuscular or intramuscular connective tissue planes (see, among other examples: Langevin & Yandow, 2002).

When we needle these myofascial planes we aren't just moving 'Qi,' we are physically interacting with the body's structural matrix:

• Needle Grasp and Retention: When an acupuncture needle is rotated, the surrounding connective tissue actually winds around the needle. This creates a mechanical stretch that signals certain cells (called fibroblasts) to begin a healing and relaxation response (Langevin et al., 2002).

• 'Anatomy Trains': Modern anatomical research, such as Thomas Myers’ Anatomy Trains, has mapped 12 "myofascial meridians" that mirror the classical acupuncture channels with startling accuracy (Myers, 2020).

The Neurological Connection: Points as Communication Hubs

Acupuncture points are not random spots. They are often located at specific neuroanatomical hubs or hotspots, including:

• Nerve Bifurcations: Where nerves branch out.

• Motor Entry Points: Where a nerve enters a muscle to tell it to contract or relax.

• Neurovascular Bundles: Areas rich in blood vessels and nerve endings.

By stimulating these points, we are performing neuromodulation. We are sending a clear signal to the Central Nervous System to 'turn down the volume' on pain and 'turn up' the signals for tissue and cell repair.

Neurophysiology of the arm with some common acupuncture points

Treating the Terrain, Not Just the Symptom

We look at the terrain of your body. If a muscle is chronically tight, it acts like a kink in a hose, which restricts blood flow, oxygen, and nutrition to the nerves and tissues in the local area.

1. Vascular Restoration: Needling triggers a local release of vasodilators, bringing fresh, oxygenated blood into injured areas to flush out metabolic waste.

2. Systemic Balance: We use the peripheral nervous system to influence the Autonomic Nervous System, shifting you out of a fight-or-flight state (sympathetic nervous system) and into a 'rest-and-repair' state (parasympathetic nervous system).

At Thrive Integrative Medicine we are accessing something tangible, often palpable, and we are accessing something magical. We are accessing a complex, integrated biophysiological system: YOU!

More Science Behind Acupuncture

Recent studies have shown that acupuncture can trigger the release of endorphins, the body's natural painkillers. This response can lead to significant pain relief for various conditions, including:

• Chronic Back Pain

• Headaches

• Muscle Pain and Joint Pain

• Arthritis

• Migraines

• Fibromyalgia

  
  

Research indicates that acupuncture can also moderate inflammation, and improve blood circulation: further aiding in pain management.

Thrive Integrative Medicine and the Approach towards Acupuncture

Anatomy is the Map

In the Neijing tradition, 'meridians' aren't invisible lines; they are remarkably accurate maps of the body’s physical anatomy.

Understanding the Science: Biophysiology

The word 'Qi' is often translated as 'energy.' While everything in the universe is, in fact, technically energy, at Thrive Integrative Medicine Dr Andres looks at Qi through the lens of biophysiology; Acupuncture is the interaction between the placement of pins which accomplish the following:

1. Vascular Regulation

Inserting a needle creates a micro-trauma that signals the body to flood the area with fresh blood, oxygen, and nutrients. This is essential for repairing injured tissue and clearing out metabolic waste.

2. Nervous System Regulation

Your body has two main gears: Sympathetic (fight or flight) and Parasympathetic (rest and digest). Classical Acupuncture acts as a bridge between the Central Nervous System and the Peripheral Nervous System, helping to flip the switch from chronic stress to active recovery.

3. Myofascial Release

By targeting restrictions in the fascia acupuncture with Dr. Tyler Andres can resolve pain that is referred from other parts of the body. If the terrain of the body is restricted or tight, nerves can't communicate properly and chemicals are released that cause pain. By opening those restrictions, there is restoration of the flow in the body.

Thrive’s Unique Approach: Treating the Terrain

At Thrive Integrative Medicine there is a synthesis of ancient wisdom and modern functional understanding of health across multiple systems in the body.

Personalized Assessment

Every patient presents with a unique picture, and every person is distinct in regards to the terrain in their body. Starting with thorough physical assessments, a treatment plan comes together that integrates the understanding of meridian and point location with

The Benefits of Acupuncture for Pain Management

Acupuncture offers numerous benefits for those dealing with pain. Here are some key advantages:

Non-Invasive Treatment

Unlike many conventional pain management methods, acupuncture is non-invasive. This means fewer side effects and a lower risk of complications. Many patients find it a preferable option compared to medications or surgical interventions.

Long-Lasting Relief

Many patients experience long-lasting relief from pain after just a few sessions. While individual results may vary, some report significant improvements in their condition, allowing them to return to activities they once enjoyed.

Improved Quality of Life

By managing pain effectively, acupuncture can enhance overall quality of life. Patients often report better sleep, increased energy levels, and improved mood, contributing to a more fulfilling life.

What to Expect During Your First Visit

If you're considering acupuncture at Thrive, here's what you can expect during your first visit:

Initial Consultation

Your journey begins with a detailed consultation. Dr Tyler Andres DAOM, LAc will ask about your medical history, current symptoms, lifestyle and evaluate other systems. This information is crucial for developing a tailored treatment plan.

Treatment Session

During the treatment, you will lie comfortably while Dr Tyler uses minute filiform surgical steel pins at specific points along the body. Most patients report minimal discomfort, surprisingly, and many find the experience relaxing or even drift to sleep.

Follow-Up Care

After your session, we will discuss your experience and any changes that might be noted. Follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor your progress and adjust your treatment plan as needed.

Real-Life Success Stories

At Thrive, we have seen countless patients benefit from our acupuncture approach.

Here are a few testimonials:

Hip Replacment, Post-Surgical Care and Oncology Support

From a patient Joanne W:

I worked with Tyler on multiple occasions over the course of a decade. He helped me rehab through a total hip replacement, then kidney removal from cancer some years later, and again in care through a metastasized lung tumor and aggressive immunotherapies that were devastating for my body. He was always impeccable in care, bringing heart into the treatment space, and truly helped me move forward in life through these challenges. I feel grateful to have found him!

Lower Back Pain, Digestive Issues, Orthopedic and Post-Op Recovery

From a patient Zeke A:

I have been treated by Dr. Tyler for over a decade for various health issues…that alone should give his current and future patients the comfort and peace of mind regarding his professionalism. My treatments were a whole variety depending on the issue.…At times for lower back pain, post surgical treatment, digestive tract, etc. After being diagnosed with Ulcerative Colitis he prescribed herbs, another time he helped with speeding the pain and healing process of broken ribs and arm.  My last treatments eased the effects of chemo and radiation therapy. With his help, I’ve been cancer free for almost 7 years. Types of therapies employed were; Acupuncture, Cupping, Herbs, Supplements and Moxibustion. I think highly of his professionalism and care!

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Acupuncture Safe?

Yes, acupuncture is generally considered safe when performed by a trained professional. At Thrive, our practitioners are licensed and experienced in providing acupuncture treatments.

How Many Sessions Will I Need?

The number of sessions required varies depending on the individual and the condition being treated. Many patients notice improvements after just a few sessions, while others may require ongoing treatment for chronic issues.

Will It Hurt?

Most patients report minimal discomfort during the insertion of needles. The needles used are very thin, and many people find the experience relaxing.

Conclusion

Acupuncture is a powerful tool for pain management, and at Thrive Integrative Medicine we have developed a unique approach that combines traditional techniques in Classical Acupuncture with modern understandings of biophysiology. By focusing on personalized treatment plans, integrating various therapies, and utilizing evidence-based techniques, we aim to provide effective relief for our patients.

If you are struggling with pain and are looking for a holistic approach, we invite you to explore the benefits of acupuncture at Thrive. Take the first step towards a pain-free life today!

Read more on Acupuncture at:

https://www.godwinacupuncture.com/acupuncture-science.html

References

Dorsher, P. T. (2008). Can classical acupuncture points and trigger points be compared in the treatment of pain disorders? Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 14(5), 489–491. https://doi.org/10.1089/acm.2007.0811 Cited by: 138

Langevin, H. M., & Yandow, J. A. (2002). Relationship of acupuncture points and meridians to connective tissue planes. The Anatomical Record, 269(6), 257–265. https://doi.org/10.1002/ar.10185 Cited by: 942

Langevin, H. M., Churchill, D. L., & Cipolla, M. J. (2001). Mechanical signaling through connective tissue: a mechanism for the therapeutic effect of acupuncture. FASEB Journal, 15(12), 2275–2282. https://doi.org/10.1096/fj.01-0015hyp Cited by: 524

Melzack, R., Stillwell, D. M., & Fox, E. J. (1977). Trigger points and acupuncture points for pain: correlations and implications. Pain, 3(1), 3–23. https://doi.org/10.1016/0304-3959(77)90032-X Cited by: 812

Myers, T. W. (2020). Anatomy Trains: Myofascial Meridians for Manual and Movement Therapists (4th ed.). Elsevier.