Acupuncture and Healthy Aging

As seniors look back on their lives, they may find themselves wishing that they could still engage in the activities they enjoyed when they were younger. It is certainly true that aging presents challenges to those who wish to enjoy life to the fullest throughout their senior years.

How can older men and women triumph over the challenges that aging presents? Consider the various therapeutic benefits of acupuncture, especially as they relate to aging individuals. There is stong measurable evidence that acupuncture can be a safe and effective additional treatment for many of the maladies associated with aging.

Pain

One of the most common problems associated with advancing years is pain. Whether this pain is simply a byproduct of getting older or whether it comes as a secondary effect of a disease such as arthritis, it can certainly be a difficult thing to live with day after day. Many studies show that acupuncture can successfully treat chronic pain including muscle and joint pain, as well as lower back discomfort. By reducing inflammation in the body, it can allow a person to be physically active without the pressing issue of pain. Acupuncture also has the added benefit of avoiding side effects that accompany surgery or certain prescription medications. What's more, treatment effects often last longer than other commonly used therapies.

Limited Range of Motion

Limited range of motion can occur as a result of physical injuries or pre-existing pain that causes the person to favor that joint, or limit their use of it. This in turn can cause even more degeneration of that particular joint or area. Soon an individual may find themselves in a vicious cycle of pain and lack of physical activity, actually unintentionally contributing to their condition and symptoms. Acupuncture can be a helpful way of regaining range of motion and strength to certain areas of the body, without the need to undergo risky surgeries or engage in painful or even potentially dangerous rehabilitation exercises. Once some range of movement is regained, an individual can begin with light exercises to regain some of their physical strength and muscle tone, allowing them to engage in activities they once enjoyed.

Stroke

A stroke occurs when a clot blocks off a blood vessel that carries blood and essential nutrients to the brain. This results in oxygen deprivation and death in that particular area of the brain itself. This often leads to disastrous consequences such as paralysis, limited speech, and impaired memory. Some studies have shown that acupuncture can be a helpful component of an overall rehabilitative program to help an individual recover from the effects of a stroke. While speech therapy, physiotherapy and other interventions may still be necessary, acupuncture can improve the overall outcome of these treatment techniques, helping an individual get back to their previous way of life after suffering a stroke.

Slow Healing

Impaired healing is a common problem associated with aging. This occurs as a result of various diseases, such as diabetes. However, it can also occur simply because of a malfunctioning immune system related to older age. While medical treatment of diseases like diabetes is absolutely essential, these treatments don't necessarily take away all the negative effects of the disease. Acupuncture can improve blood flow, which in turn promotes healing throughout the body. It can also increase the effects of the immune system itself, which can help ward off many common illnesses and speed healing when injuries occur.

Balance and Falling

Dizziness and poor blood flow can result in dangerous falls, broken bones, and numerous physical injuries. As we age, our center of balance becomes less reliable. Many older individuals are afraid to do the activities they once loved because of a fear of falling and getting injured. Acupuncture may help alleviate dizziness and improve overall circulation. With a steadier gait and more confidence, older ones can have the opportunity to once again engage in the hobbies they used to enjoy without a constant fear of falls and injuries.

Fatigue

Fatigue is much more than a loss of energy or general tiredness. Fatigue is severe lack of energy that does not improve, even with appropriate rest and sleep. Fatigue can occur alone or as a result of a specific disease process. However, fatigue does not have to be a normal part of the aging process. Acupuncture can help balance the body’s energies, leading to a consistent level of energy that lasts all day. This will allow an individual to engage in activities and hobbies that they may not have been able to enjoy for years.

Swelling and Inflamation

Swelling naturally occurs with age progression simply because of the retention of fluids within the body. Diseases such as diabetes can certainly make this swelling much worse. When swelling occurs to this degree, it is only natural that a person would not have the desire or ability to be physically active. Acupuncture can help the body balance its fluid levels, which will help keep excess fluids from building up around the extremities.

Neuropathy

Neuropathy is pain in the nerves throughout the body. It can be compared to the feeling a person gets when one of their limbs falls asleep. The tingling, painful sensation can be brought on simply by age or can be a result of diseases such as diabetes or treatments for cancer. Whatever the case, neuropathy can be debilitating. Acupuncture can help improve blood flow and circulation throughout the body, helping to control this pain. This allows for freedom of movement without an overwhelming concern about severe nerve pain.