Acupuncture and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Post-traumatic stress disorder, as the name implies, is a type of stress or anxiety disorder that develops after a severe and terrifying event or ordeal has taken place in a person’s life. Sometimes abbreviated to PTSD, post-traumatic stress disorder is often suffered by those who find themselves in a war zone and develop an array of anxiety and stress induced symptoms afterwards. These include such things as sleep disturbances, depression, irritability, irrational fears, uncontrollable anger and recurring nightmares.
PTSD can occur after any type of traumatic, violent or life altering event such as a rape, assault, witnessing of a crime, car accidents, natural disasters, etc. This syndrome makes for a complicated diagnosis that can be accompanied by a number of different symptoms. Acupuncture has been shown to bring relief from many of the symptoms that are characteristic of post-traumatic stress disorder and it can also help to manage chronic pain that can cause those affected by it to suffer even more.
PTSD is often an accumulation of physical, mental and emotional stress all rolled into one. Some of the conditions that are manifest as PTSD that acupuncture can address include:
• Chronic and acute pain
• Anxiety
• Management of stress
• Depression
• Anger, aggression, frustration and irritability
• Emotional problems
• Headaches
• Insomnia and nightmares
• Physical addictions
Ear acupuncture is used for those who have been diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder. It brings a sense of calm and relaxation to the patient that is very similar to the results obtained when alternative methods such as yoga or transcendental meditation are used.
Acupuncture has few if any side effects and has been shown through research studies to be an effective alternative treatment for victims of PTSD. Not only does it address the problems of stress and anxiety but, as previously mentioned, it helps to lessen pain from other conditions that can cause PTSD to be felt at a higher level. Acupuncture is an ancient form of healing that works to balance energy in the body, mind and soul and return it to proper working order.
Post-traumatic stress disorder sufferers who choose to undergo acupuncture treatments may notice a feeling of peace or balance that takes place very quickly, however it is important to remember that the healing process will take considerably longer. A number of acupuncture treatments are strongly recommended for the victim of PTSD.
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