Acupuncture Therapy

Acupuncture Therapy in Substance Use Disorder Treatment

Drug and alcohol addiction is a serious and complex condition. People living with substance use disorder (SUD) require comprehensive treatment. Comprehensive treatment programs offer a combination of therapies to address the roots of substance use.

Holistic therapies are an essential aspect of holistic addiction treatment. Holistic therapies can reduce stress and discomfort. They offer new ways to cope with challenges. They can also improve overall health and well-being as people navigate substance use recovery. 

Acupuncture is a holistic therapy used in SUD treatment. This article will explore how people in recovery can benefit from acupuncture and other holistic therapies. You will learn:

• How acupuncture works
• How to use acupuncture in substance use disorder treatment
• The benefits of holistic therapies in treatment and recovery
• How to determine if you or a loved one needs substance use treatment
• Where to find holistic SUD treatment programs

If you or someone you love struggles with substance use disorder, you are not alone. Contact the Blue Star Recovery specialists to learn about our holistic approach to SUD recovery. Learn about the benefits of acupuncture, ask questions, or schedule an intake appointment by reaching out to our team today. 

What is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is a key aspect of traditional Chinese medicine. During acupuncture treatment sessions, a trained practitioner inserts thin, sterile needles into specific acupuncture points throughout the body. 

Traditional Eastern medicine practitioners believe that acupuncture can help to balance the flow of energy throughout the body. Some potential effects of acupuncture include:

• Reduced stress
• Less pain
• Less nausea

Holistic practitioners may use acupuncture during the treatment of:

• Back pain
• Migraines and headaches
• Dental pain
• Chemotherapy-induced nausea
• Neck pain
• Respiratory ailments
• Menstrual cramps
• Labor pain
• Fibromyalgia
• Chronic pain
• Substance use disorder (SUD)

Each practitioner uses a unique approach during acupuncture sessions. Generally, a practitioner may assess the patient’s health before beginning treatment. Then, they will create and follow a treatment plan that involves inserting very thin needles into different areas of the body. People may wait 10 to 15 minutes before the practitioner removes the needles.

Most people do not experience significant discomfort or side effects during treatment. Some experience more energy or relaxation immediately after treatment. Others experience limited or no effects after sessions.

Working with a trained practitioner who can provide high-quality, safe acupuncture treatment is critical. 

Acupuncture for Substance Use Disorder: Understanding This Treatment

Comprehensive treatment programs provide a combination of evidence-based and holistic therapies. These therapies complement each other and allow people to address the complex roots of their substance use disorder. They help people overcome the physical, behavioral, and psychological aspects of SUD.

A comprehensive treatment program may include:

• Assessments and screenings
• Mental health care
• Medication management
• Behavioral therapies
• Individual, group, and family counseling
• Relapse prevention education
• Holistic therapies, including acupuncture, massage, mindfulness, and nutrition support

People may receive acupuncture and other holistic therapies in an outpatient treatment program. They may also include holistic therapies like acupuncture in their aftercare plan.

The Benefits of Holistic Therapies in SUD Treatment

Studies have shown that acupuncture, mindfulness, nutrition support, and other holistic therapies can be beneficial during SUD treatment. Here are some of the most significant benefits of holistic therapies in SUD treatment. 

Contact the Blue Star Recovery specialists to learn more about the benefits of acupuncture and holistic therapies in SUD recovery. 

Do I Need Addiction Treatment?

Recognizing substance use disorder is the first step in getting help. Some signs you or a loved one may need treatment for SUD include:

• Frequently using more of a substance than you planned to
• Needing more of a substance to get the desired effects
• Spending a lot of time and energy getting, using, and recovering from using a substance
• Having cravings for drugs or alcohol
• Experiencing withdrawal symptoms if you stop using a substance
• Falling behind in your responsibilities at home, work, or school
• Isolating more
• Doing dangerous things while using drugs or alcohol, like driving or having unprotected sex
• Having legal, social, or financial problems associated with substance use
• Wanting to stop using a substance but feeling like you can’t quit

Contact the Blue Star Recovery specialists to learn more about when to seek SUD treatment. 

Find Holistic Treatment Now

If you or someone you love struggles with substance use disorder, you are not alone. Find comprehensive, effective treatment at Blue Star Recovery. Contact our intake specialists to learn more about our holistic treatment programs or to schedule an appointment. 

References:

1. National Institute of Health (NIH): Acupuncture
2. Harvard Medical School: Exploring the Science of Acupuncture
3. Science Direct: Mental health benefits of traditional Chinese medicine – An umbrella review of meta-analyses
4. National Institute of Health (NIH): Acupuncture in Addiction Medicine: Its History, Evidence, and Possibilities