Neurological Conditions

Neurological conditions

Acupuncture and neurological conditions – how can it help?

Neurological conditions can stem from vascular, neuromuscular, infection, autoimmune, psychological, trauma, and neural development conditions. Depending on the condition, common symptoms can be:

• Muscular cramping, spasms, stiffness
• Gut and bowel imbalance
• Urinary conditions
• Interrupted sleep
• Mental health imbalance
• Fagitue
• Autonomic nervous system imbalance

Although our intention is alleviating symptoms, our goal is to focus on your underlying pattern, treating the root imbalance. I find by approaching treatments this way, the myriad of symptoms start to settle, even if they weren’t specifically targeted.

How does acupuncture target neurological conditions?

1. Pain regulation: acupuncture can stimulate the release of endogenous opioids, retrain CNS hypersensitivity to stimuli, promote blood flow, ease tightness and cramping
2. Neurotransmitter modulation: acupuncture can help regulate the release of neurotransmitters such as dopamine, serotonin, GABA, and more, which play crucial roles in neurological conditions. Through balancing feedback loops, treatments can help alleviate many symptoms
3. Reduction of neuro-inflammation: acupuncture has been found to reduce inflammation by regulating immune cell activity and reducing pro-inflammatory cytokine release
4. Autonomic nervous system regulation: this system deals with body functions such as heart rate, blood pressure, and digestion. Acupuncture can influence it’s activity, allowing  for changes in symptoms in these systems
5. Reduction of stress levels: the vicious cycle of stress in these conditions can promote a sympathetic-dominant nervous system, exacerbating symptoms of neurological conditions. By activating the parasympathetic nervous system and calming the “fight or flight” aspect, acupuncture can have a widespread effect
6. Improvement of circulation: improving circulation can benefit neurological health by ensuring the brain, nerves, muscles, and organs receive a healthy supply of oxygen and nutrients. It may also assist the repair and regeneration of damaged neural tissue
7. Neurotrophic regulation: acupuncture may help regulate the activity of neurotrophic factors, which support the growth, survival, and function off neurons. By enhancing neurotrophic production, acupuncture may benefit neuronal survival and regeneration
8. Enhancement of sleep quality: by regulating the neurotransmitters involved in sleep-wake cycles, treatments can assist better sleep quality, which has major effects on overall neurological function and daily activity
9. Symptom management: we can also target conditions’ symptoms, any side-effects from medication, as we aim to improve the quality of life for those living with these conditions

In summary…

Acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine work together with Western treatments as a holistic therapy for these conditions. We take your full detailed history and medication history to ensure treatments complement any current medication or treatments and may offer dietary and lifestyle advice.

– Michelle