Scalp Acupuncture

Many people with nervous system disorders such as multiple sclerosis and spinal cord injuries have benefitted from treatments involving scalp acupuncture.

Scalp acupuncture is a specialized form of acupuncture that emerged specifically to help treat nervous system disorders, which is an area that has shown much positive response to acupuncture treatment.

What is it?

Scalp acupuncture is often used in addition to traditional acupuncture, and it follows the same general theory of traditional body acupuncture.

That theory, simplified dramatically, basically states that there is a specific energy source, called Qi, that runs throughout the body, and if any partial or complete blockages should occur in its' path, an illness or injury will occur.

Different points along this path, called meridians, are stimulated through the use of acupuncture needles and it is thought that this stimulation will help clear any blockages and assist the body in healing itself.

All forms of acupuncture differ from a more conventional medical treatment because in Chinese medicine the focus is kept on the whole body and treatment is directed toward the underlying problem, as opposed to just treating the symptoms.

Who Should Get Scalp Acupuncture?

While scalp acupuncture can be used to treat most of the same disorders as regular acupuncture, it is typically used for patients with nervous system disorders and pain.

Scalp acupuncture has shown great success in assisting stroke patients by reducing a hormone in the bloodstream that influences platelet clumping.

In addition, scalp acupuncture has proven beneficial for patients living with MS, SCI, ALS, and head injuries.

Many scalp acupuncture practitioners believe that for the best results, treatment should begin as soon after an injury or neurological problem as possible.

Benefits of Scalp Acupuncture

Many patients of scalp acupuncture report that after only a few sessions they have noticeable improvement in their energy levels, as well as their moving and standing ability.

They also report feeling a less pain and a higher quality of life.

Difference Between Scalp and Regular Acupuncture

One major difference between scalp acupuncture and regular acupuncture is the length of the sessions.

Unlike regular acupuncture, a session of scalp acupuncture lasts at least two hours and sometimes as long as three days.

Because the needles are inserted into the scalp, they do not interfere with daily activities and the patient can receive treatment while in any position.

Ask an Acupuncturist

If you have been receiving conventional treatment and are not fully satisfied with the results, talk to your healthcare provider about the benefits of scalp acupuncture.