Neck pain is one of the most common musculoskeletal disorders and is something most people will experience at some point.
In most instances, it starts suddenly before improving without requiring medical intervention. However, for some, neck pain can become a persistent and painful experience that impacts their daily lives.
At Acupuncture That Works, we have helped a long list of individuals suffering from neck pain caused by traumatic incidents, poor posture, or sleeping in an awkward position.
If you are interested in discovering more about how acupuncture for neck pain works, then carry on reading.
Can acupuncture help relieve neck pain?
The popularity of acupuncture has increased in recent years, prompting more research into the efficacy of acupuncture for neck pain.
In one study detailed in the British Medical Journal, more than 200 patients complaining of chronic neck pain received a 30-minute treatment five times a week for three weeks. Over half of those treated with acupuncture reported a more than 50 per cent improvement in motion-related pain.
Another trial conducted at the Chinese Medicine Center in Hong Kong assigned 154 patients with neck pain to receive abdominal or non-penetrating sham abdominal acupuncture. Results showed that patients in the abdominal acupuncture group exhibited significantly greater improvements in neck pain intensity than those in the sham abdominal acupuncture group.
While research is ongoing, we believe there is persuasive evidence to suggest that acupuncture for neck pain is effective when used independently and in conjunction with other treatments.
What are the acupuncture points for neck pain?
There are a number of key points practitioners use to relieve neck pain, with some of the most commonly used being:
GB20: Located behind the earlobe, at the base of the skull and towards the top of the neck. It is used to improve the feeling of a stiff neck, fatigue and headaches.
GB21: Can be found halfway between where your neck and arms begin. It is used to relieve headaches, muscle tension, and pain from a sore or stiff neck.
L14: This point is located between the fold of skin between your forefinger and thumb. It is believed to relieve pain in different parts of the body, including the neck.
How many acupuncture sessions should you have?
The number of sessions each patient should have for their neck pain will depend on the professional opinion of your practitioner and the severity of the pain.
Every patient is different, and while some will experience immediate pain relief following the first session, others may require several before they report a noticeable change in pain levels.
How often should you have acupuncture for neck pain?
After an initial consultation with your practitioner, they will decide how often they believe you should have acupuncture to maximise the benefit. In most instances, it is recommended for patients to attend between once and twice a week, but this is dependent on the level of pain.
It is generally recommended that patients are consistent with their sessions for the acupuncture to be effective and have a long-lasting impact.
Acupuncture for Pain Relief
Neck pain can be debilitating, affecting how you feel both physically and mentally. If this is something you, or a loved one, is experiencing then don’t hesitate to get in touch with us today.
For more than a decade, our team has been proud to help patients relieve their ongoing issues with neck pain and regain control of their daily lives.
To find out more about the acupuncture for neck pain we offer at Acupuncture That Works, feel free to visit our contact us page or get in touch with us today on 0800 051 76 88.
