Acupuncture for Addiction
About Addiction
Addiction is defined as the compulsive physiological need for and use of a habit-forming substance, which means dependency can come in a lot of different forms. People can be addicted to illicit drugs like heroin just as quickly as they can be addicted to sugar. But for this article, let’s stick to illegal drugs and alcohol.
Millions of people ages 12 or older have needed treatment for drug or alcohol addiction. And the treatments provided aren’t guaranteed, nor are they always easy. Luckily, there are alternative treatment options that can help.
What Is Acupuncture
Acupuncture is based on the correlation of specific locations and energetic meridians found in and on the body. For addiction, micro-acupuncture has been used with excellent results. Micro-acupuncture uses points on a small part of the body, like the ear, that also show correlations with balancing and restorative functions.
Auricular Acupuncture (Ear Acupuncture)
Auricular acupuncture is probably the most common technique used when treating addiction. There is a specific protocol utilised for treating addiction. It is called the NADA protocol. NADA stands for National Acupuncture Detoxification Association. NADA was established in 1985 to promote education and training. The NADA protocol utilises five specific points in the ear that address not only substance abuse but also the emotional, physical and psychological attributes involved in addictions. This five-point protocol allows one practitioner to treat many patients at a time, making it more time-effective, as well as more cost-effective.
The NADA protocol consists of five specific points, the sympathetic point, Shen Men, the kidney point, the liver point and the lung point. The sensitive end balances the nervous systems and has a strong analgesic effect. Shen Men has a relaxing effect and helps alleviate anxiety and nervousness that may accompany withdrawals. The kidney point boosts the source energy of the patient while helping to resolve fear and increase willpower. The liver point promotes the repair of the liver and aids in determining anger and aggression. The lung point strengthens the immune system and accelerates detoxification. It also helps addicts deal with grief and letting go. When somebody is going through the initial detoxification process, it is essential to receive acupuncture treatments daily until you can remain clean.
Advantage Of Acupuncture
Acupuncture provides a solid foundation for recovery and rehabilitation. It is a supportive component of addiction treatment as well as a tool enabling addicts for a healthy life after remediation. Acupuncture works to enhance overall functioning in several ways. Because it is nonverbal, it helps reach patients that are resistant to change. It has been shown to reduce anxiety and agitation. And it helps develop an inner meditative state in those who are fearful or severely troubled.
Acupuncture for addiction and substance abuse offers a proven method of assisting people in the process of recovery without any side effects. Acupuncture provides relief of anxiety, depression, cravings and other withdrawal symptoms. Freedom from addiction is just a phone call away.