Acupuncture has been used for thousands of years to relieve stress. This ancient Chinese therapy actually reduces levels of a protein that is linked to chronic stress. Scientists have recently been able to measure the amount of protein neuropeptide Y which is secreted during the “flight or fight” response to acute stress. In studies, electro-acupuncture has been shown to block the chronic stress-induced elevations of these proteins. Electro-acupuncture is a more intense form of therapy than manual acupuncture; it is also commonly used for pain management. During this type of therapy, a small painless electrical charge is delivered through the acupuncture needle. Electro-acupuncture can also be effective utilizing “needle-less” acupuncture. With this method, a small hand-held micro-current stimulation device is used on acu-points instead of needles.
Chronic stress has been linked to heart disease, diabetes, certain types of cancer and elevated blood pressure amongst other conditions. Stress has also been linked to premature cell aging. It is thought that stress accounts for approximately half of the healthcare-related expenses in America. In addition to acupuncture, recommendations to decrease stress levels include eating regular balanced meals, getting enough sleep, and daily exercise.
Dr. Anne Hermann, a holistic internal medicine physician, maintains offices in Tampa and Saint Petersburg Beach, Florida. Dr. Hermann also offers comprehensive acupuncture services to her patients. Please contact the office at (813) 902-9559 for more information or to schedule an appointment.
This post was written by Anne Hermann. Follow Anne Hermann on Google, Facebook, Twitter & Linkedin.
