Can Chest Pain be Treated With Acupuncture?

Angina Chest pain affects millions of Americans, is characterized by predictable chest pain occurring during physical exertion or in response to mental or emotional stress. Researchers at the University of Illinois Chicago have secured a $3.12 million grant from the National Institutes of Health to explore the potential of acupuncture in alleviating chest pain associated with stable angina (1^✔ ✔Trusted Source
Can acupuncture alleviate certain kinds of chest pain?

Go to source).

Acupuncture's Role in Pain Management

Acupuncture has been recognized in a multitude of studies for its effectiveness in managing various forms of chronic pain. However, its impact on ischemic pain, typically stemming from inadequate oxygen supply to the heart, as seen in stable angina, remains relatively uncharted territory. In a preliminary pilot study, the research team observed encouraging outcomes: acupuncture not only reduced pain but also enhanced the quality of life for participants grappling with stable angina.

Chest pain associated with stable angina often results from the buildup of cholesterol in arteries, restricting blood flow to the heart. However, a significant number of stable angina cases have different underlying causes, such as the malfunction of tiny arteries that fail to supply sufficient oxygen.

Conventional treatments targeting cholesterol-related blockages often fall short, leaving patients with debilitating chest pain flare-ups.

Acupuncture in Stable Angina

The application of acupuncture in the context of stable angina is a novel approach with potentially groundbreaking results. As Dr. Briller notes, "The idea of using acupuncture is a really novel one, and it would be terrific if it works."

Chest pain stemming from angina can significantly diminish a person's quality of life, often leading to avoidance of physical activity or situations that could induce stress.

Holli DeVon emphasizes the debilitating nature of chronic pain and expresses excitement in offering an alternative solution to patients who haven't found complete relief through medication.

Acupuncturists typically practice in more affluent neighborhoods, making access to this alternative therapy challenging for many. This research aims to bridge that gap by primarily enrolling participants from medically underserved groups.

Advertisement

In conclusion, the research at the University of Illinois Chicago, funded by a $3.12 million grant from the National Institutes of Health, aims to uncover the potential of acupuncture as a solution for chest pain in stable angina patients.

Promising results from a pilot study have sparked hope that this ancient practice may offer relief for those who have not found complete pain alleviation through traditional medication.

Advertisement

As the study unfolds, it also addresses the issue of limited access to acupuncture by enrolling medically underserved groups, bringing this alternative therapy within reach.

Reference :

1. Can acupuncture alleviate certain kinds of chest pain? - (https://nursing.uic.edu/news-stories/can-acupuncture-alleviate-certain-kinds-of-chest-pain/)

Source-Medindia