In 2020, the National Institute of Clinical Excellence (NICE) reported that an estimated third to half of the population were affected by chronic pain, with almost half of these people presenting with depression and two thirds unable to work.

Pain can be difficult to manage and have an enormous impact on quality of life, often affecting mobility, sleep and relationships as well as creating many other complications.

Conventional medicines can go a long way to managing conditions and are used daily throughout the world by millions of people to control symptoms. However, in the case of chronic pain, the NICE are now recommending acupuncture as a first line treatment rather than long-term use of prescribed and over the counter painkillers.

In traditional Chinese medicine we understand that pain is experienced when there is a blockage or imbalance to the flow of Qi. Qi (pronounced “chi”) is the universal energy that runs through the body and is responsible for multiple functions needed to maintain good health. The body and mind are also viewed as inseparable entities, therefore chronic physical symptoms such as pain may be a result of unresolved emotions. If there is an imbalance in emotional wellbeing, this can manifest as pain or blockage in another area of the body.  Conversely, if there is a blocked pathway this can affect the emotional wellbeing of the person. The integrated approach behind TCM considers not just the physical pain, but also the underlying cause, and the effect it is having on the person’s mind and spirit.

There are pain management options for all kinds of different conditions within traditional Chinese medicine such as:

Acupuncture

Acupuncture has been proven to make a significant difference in the experience of pain. Studies have shown that the stimulation of peripheral nerves during acupuncture treatments trigger the release of endorphins. That release helps to block the sensations of pain and increase feelings of relaxation. In addition to pain relief, acupuncture offers other benefits such as reduced stress, increased energy, better mental clarity, and improved sleep.

Dietary Changes

Both Eastern and Western medicine agree; when you fill your body with processed or junk foods, meals with low nutritional value, alcohol, raw and cold foods, and excess caffeine and sugar, you are more likely to experience poor health, promoting issues such as inflammation and disease. As simple as it may sound, adjusting your diet could put you on the fast-track to pain relief.

Diet in Chinese medicine is based on energetic principles of foods, such as hot natured, cold natured, and damp natured foods.  By understanding the energetic nature of each specific food, you have the ability to improve digestion by creating a more balanced and healthy functioning of internal systems.

Cupping 

Cupping has been used to treat ailments such as pain for thousands of years. It is believed to assist in the relief of pain by drawing fluid to the treated area, which your body treats like an injury. By sending more blood and Qi to the area, it stimulates a natural healing process by reducing inflammation and pain. Many people find the procedure deeply relaxing and beneficial in immediately relieving stiffness and discomfort.

The Blossom Pathway includes a detailed assessment and physical examination to help identify the root cause of pain. A plan will be devised with the client as the driver, exploring options of therapy and Lifestyle advice. Treatment plans work well in conjunction with conventional medicine recommended by general practitioners, healthcare professionals and other specialists.