Six Reasons to Use Acupuncture Before and After Surgery
- Deanna Carell
- Jun 5
- 3 min read
How acupuncture supports healing, reduces pain, and improves outcomes
Surgery is one of the most invasive forms of medical treatment. While most people try to avoid it, there are times when it becomes necessary. At our practice, we believe that preparation and recovery are just as important as the procedure itself, and that’s where acupuncture plays an essential role. Whether you're preparing for a scheduled surgery or recovering from one, acupuncture offers several proven benefits that can enhance your overall outcome.
1. Acupuncture Helps Reduce Stress and Anxiety
Undergoing surgery is a stressful experience, both emotionally and physically. The body naturally enters a fight-or-flight state, increasing cortisol levels and heightening anxiety. This stress can negatively affect your immune response, healing, and even your sleep. Acupuncture works with the nervous system to bring the body into a more parasympathetic state, promoting calmness and emotional balance. Patients often report feeling grounded and more relaxed, even before the procedure begins.
2. Acupuncture Can Help Manage Pain
While acupuncture is not a replacement for anesthesia during surgery, it is a powerful ally in post-surgical pain management. Many patients seek acupuncture after surgery to help reduce their reliance on pain medications, especially opioids. Acupuncture has been shown to stimulate the release of endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers, and reduce inflammation. With the growing concern over opioid dependency, acupuncture is a safe, non-addictive alternative to help manage post-operative discomfort.
3. Acupuncture Minimizes Swelling and Scarring
Surgical procedures often lead to swelling and the development of scar tissue. Acupuncture enhances circulation and lymphatic flow, helping to reduce inflammation and accelerate healing. By improving blood flow to the affected area, acupuncture supports the body’s natural recovery process and can even help minimize the appearance of surgical scars over time.
4. Acupuncture Strengthens the Immune System
A strong immune system is vital before and after surgery. Acupuncture helps support immune function by restoring balance within the body. Practitioners of Traditional Chinese Medicine believe that imbalances in energy (or Qi) make the body more vulnerable to illness. By addressing these imbalances, acupuncture promotes resilience and helps reduce the risk of post-surgical complications or infections.
5. Acupuncture Supports Mobility and Physical Recovery
After surgery, it's common to experience stiffness, limited range of motion, or muscle atrophy due to inactivity. Acupuncture can help by stimulating motor points, specific areas where nerve fibers meet muscle tissue, to reset and re-engage muscles that have become weak or inactive. In many cases, acupuncture is used in tandem with physical therapy, chiropractic care, or massage therapy to promote faster recovery and better functional outcomes.
6. Acupuncture Regulates Digestion and Sleep
Post-surgical recovery can disrupt both digestion and sleep. Opioid medications often lead to constipation, and stress or pain can interfere with sleep quality. Acupuncture helps regulate the digestive system by improving gut motility and supporting healthy elimination. It also calms the nervous system, which can lead to more restful, restorative sleep, an essential component of healing.
Why Consider Acupuncture Around Surgery?
Acupuncture has become increasingly integrated into mainstream care as more healthcare providers recognize its ability to complement surgical interventions. From preparing the body and mind before surgery to reducing pain, inflammation, and recovery time afterward, acupuncture is a safe and effective addition to your healing plan.
If you or a loved one are preparing for surgery or recovering from one, we invite you to reach out to our practice. We’re here to answer your questions and support your healing journey, naturally and holistically.
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