The Peoples Pain Clinic

Pediatrics | Pain | Insomnia | Indigestion | Headaches | Fibromyalgia | Blood Pressure

Fri: 9am-4pm,

Sat: 11am-6pm,

Sun: 11am-6pm

1233 Lala St. Ste. 203, Kirkland WA, 98033

425-422-7999

Electro-Acupuncture: An Effective Approach to Pain Management

Electroacupuncture

Electroacupuncture (EA) combines traditional acupuncture techniques with electrical stimulation, enhancing the therapeutic effects of manual acupuncture. By applying a mild electric current through acupuncture needles, EA stimulates specific points on the body, offering a potent method for alleviating various types of pain.​AJOG MFM

Mechanisms of Action

The analgesic effects of electroacupuncture are attributed to several physiological mechanisms:​JAMA Network+2AJOG MFM+2Wikipedia+2

  • Release of Endogenous Opioids: EA triggers the release of endorphins, enkephalins, and dynorphins, which are natural pain-relieving compounds in the body. These substances modulate pain perception at both peripheral and central levels, leading to significant analgesia. PubMed​
  • Modulation of Neurotransmitters: EA influences the release of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and norepinephrine, which play crucial roles in inhibiting pain signals within the central nervous system. PMC​
  • Anti-Inflammatory Effects: EA has been shown to reduce pro-inflammatory cytokines, thereby diminishing inflammation and associated pain. ​PMC

Clinical Evidence Supporting Electroacupuncture for Pain Relief

Numerous studies have demonstrated the efficacy of electroacupuncture in managing various pain conditions:​

  • Chronic Low Back Pain: A study published in JAMA Network Open investigated the effects of electroacupuncture on chronic low back pain. The findings suggested that EA might lead to stronger analgesic outcomes compared to manual acupuncture, although further research is needed to confirm these results. ​JAMA Network
  • Postoperative Pain: Research indicates that electroacupuncture effectively alleviates postoperative pain. A study focusing on patients undergoing endoscopic sinus surgery found that EA significantly reduced pain levels compared to sham treatments. ​The Journal of Pain
  • Cancer-Related Pain: A randomized clinical trial involving cancer survivors with chronic musculoskeletal pain revealed that electroacupuncture significantly reduced pain severity and improved quality of life compared to usual care. ​JAMA Network