Acupuncture and Trauma/ PTSD

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) can occur after someone experiences a traumatic event beyond the scope of typical or everyday stress factors. While we tend to think of PTSD in relation to military combat, it is not limited to the battlefield. PTSD can occur after incidents of violence, accidents, or even natural disasters. The National Institute of Mental Health estimates that on average about 6-7% of American adults will experience PTSD at some point in their lifetime.

Some common symptoms of PTSD include: persistent flashbacks and nightmares; avoidance of trauma-inducing stimuli, including memories; negative moods, uncontrollable negative thoughts and mood swings, as well as a constant feeling of imminent threat; and reactivity including panic attacks, insomnia, and depression.

If you or someone you know struggles with healing from trauma or PTSD, including acupuncture into your treatment plan can help!

A 2012 study found that acupuncture and electroacupuncture were both significantly beneficial in improving the negative symptoms of PTSD caused by experiencing an earthquake when compared to a control group who received no acupuncture treatments.

But how does it work?

Acupuncture assists your healing by helping to quiet the part of your brain responsible for worry and stress, regulating hormone production, including hormones such as serotonin and dopamine, and promoting relaxation in both your mind and body. Patients that utilize acupuncture to assist in their healing journey post trauma report feeling calmer, less reactive, improved sleep quality, and higher tolerance for exposure to triggers and stressors.

If you think this treatment avenue could benefit you, schedule a consultation with either of our practitioners to get your healing started!