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Psoriasis, a chronic autoimmune condition characterized by red, scaly patches on the skin, can have a profound impact on one's physical and emotional well-being. While conventional treatments offer limited relief and often come with side effects, acupuncture presents a holistic and natural approach to managing psoriasis symptoms and restoring balance to the body.
Understanding Psoriasis
Psoriasis is more than just a skin condition; it is a complex autoimmune disorder that results from an overactive immune system attacking healthy skin cells. This leads to the rapid turnover of skin cells, causing the characteristic patches of red, inflamed skin covered with silvery scales. Psoriasis can manifest anywhere on the body, including the scalp, elbows, knees, and even the face, significantly impacting quality of life and self-esteem.
While conventional treatments such as topical creams, oral medications, and phototherapy can help alleviate psoriasis symptoms, they often provide only temporary relief and may come with unwanted side effects. Moreover, these treatments do not address the underlying immune dysfunction driving the condition, leaving many patients searching for alternative solutions.
How Acupuncture May Help
Psoriasis Reducing Inflammation : Psoriasis is characterized by inflammation in the skin, and acupuncture has been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects. By targeting specific acupuncture points, the treatment may help regulate the body's inflammatory response, potentially reducing redness, swelling, and discomfort associated with psoriatic lesions.
Balancing the Immune System : Psoriasis is caused by an overactive immune system mistakenly attacking healthy skin cells. Acupuncture is believed to modulate immune function, promoting a more balanced response. By regulating immune activity, acupuncture may help mitigate the underlying autoimmune component of psoriasis.
Stress Reduction : Stress is a known trigger for psoriasis flare-ups, exacerbating symptoms and prolonging remission periods. Acupuncture has been shown to reduce stress levels by promoting relaxation and enhancing the body's ability to cope with stressors. By addressing the emotional and psychological aspects of psoriasis, acupuncture may help manage stress-related flare-ups and improve overall well-being.
Improving Circulation : Acupuncture stimulates blood flow to the skin and underlying tissues, promoting oxygenation and nutrient delivery to affected areas. Enhanced circulation may support skin healing and regeneration, potentially speeding up the resolution of psoriatic lesions and reducing their severity.
Pain Relief : Psoriasis can be accompanied by pain and discomfort, particularly in areas where lesions are present. Acupuncture has analgesic properties, triggering the release of endorphins and other natural pain-relieving chemicals in the body. By alleviating pain and enhancing pain tolerance, acupuncture may offer relief to individuals suffering from psoriasis-related discomfort.
Many individuals report significant improvements in their symptoms after undergoing acupuncture treatments. Acupuncture may offer psoriasis sufferers a natural and holistic approach to managing their condition, addressing not only the physical symptoms but also the emotional and psychological aspects of living with a chronic skin condition.
At our People’s Choice Acupuncture, we understand that psoriasis is a highly individualized condition, and no two patients are alike. That's why we take a personalized approach to treatment, tailoring each acupuncture session to address the specific needs and concerns of our patients. Whether you're seeking relief from itching and inflammation or looking to boost your immune system, we are here to support you on your journey to healthier skin.
Resources:
https://www.dovepress.com/trends-in-acupuncture-therapy-for-microcirculation-and-he morheology-fr-peer-reviewed-fulltext-article-JPR#:~:text=Sandberg%20M's%20research %20concludes%20that,conditions%20related%20to%20impaired%20microcirculation .
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2095496423000869#:~:text=3.2.&t ext=In%20recent%20years%2C%20several%20studies,hydroxytryptamine%20(5%2DHT) .