Natural Treatment for Opioid Addiction
Orlando Acupuncture
Opioid addiction is a serious issue that affects many families not only in Orlando, but all across the U.S. today. Overcoming any addiction is difficult, regardless of the substance. People often become addicted to opiates after being prescribed these medications for pain; the addiction can be both physical and psychological. Acupuncture and Chinese medicine have a long history of success helping those with an opioid addiction. A growing number of Western medical doctors have read the research and are recommending acupuncture for their patients. As acupuncture physicians, we know the benefits that Chinese Medicine brings to those having a difficult time overcoming an addiction to OxyContin, oxycodone, hydrocodone and other narcotic opioid drugs.
Acupuncture is beneficial for both the psychological and physical components of opioid addiction. Many who are addicted enjoy the euphoria they experience, a feeling of wellness and happiness they just don’t feel without the drug. The pleasurable, good feelings are what often lead to addiction; patients may take more than prescribed because they “crave” that euphoric feeling. This is the psychological side of an addiction, the one that is often the hardest to overcome.
How can acupuncture help conquer the powerful, psychological attraction to opioids?
Acupuncture is a holistic or natural component of traditional Chinese medicine, a healing method that helps stimulate healing and has been used for thousands of years to treat a wide array of health issues. Acupuncture has been shown in studies to reduce stress, balance hormones in the body, improve mental function, and stimulate the release of endorphins or “feel good” hormones in the body. From increasing levels of endorphins, dopamine, serotonin and other chemicals in the body responsible for emotional health and well-being, acupuncture has been shown to help the body produce its own “natural” opioids in a sense, thereby reducing the cravings for opioid drugs in a way that promotes health, and is completely safe.
Natural Treatment Options for Painkillers Like Oxy and Vicodin
Those addicted to opioids often find that trying to wean themselves off of the drug results in a variety of negative symptoms including anxiety, muscle pain, restless legs, insomnia, nausea, diarrhea, lack of energy, hot and cold sweats, agitation, runny nose and more. The physical symptoms are often so severe that patients decide it is easier to just take another pill rather than having these symptoms after a few days. Acupuncture is effective in this respect as it works to reduce stress and pain, promoting relaxation and providing a sense of calm while supporting the body’s innate ability to heal itself as those addicted work toward complete recovery.
Acupuncture is often most effective in treating opioid addiction when used in conjunction with Chinese herbal therapy. Those who are committed to overcoming their addictions want every opportunity to ensure their success; acupuncture is a natural, safe treatment that lends to a positive outcome and increased success rates. Learn more by contacting Orlando Acupuncture in Winter Park now at 407-673-6700.
Click here to view our interview on WESH 2 News:
https://www.wesh.com/article/many-patients-turning-to-acupuncture-to-treat-chronic-pain/26315374