Pain affects everyone — from a stiff neck after an awkward night’s sleep to the deep, lasting ache of an old injury. At Acupuncture Zen in Delray Beach, acupuncture and pain relief go hand in hand. Dr. Tony Willcox, A.P., has spent more than 20 years helping patients — from professional athletes to everyday people — manage both acute and chronic pain.
Acupuncture and Pain Relief for Acute Pain
Acute pain comes on suddenly. Think of a pulled muscle, a tension headache, or a sprain. In these cases, acupuncture may help ease pain and support the body’s natural recovery. It is understood to improve local blood flow and calm the nervous system’s response to injury.
For each patient, Dr. Tony looks for the source of the pain, not just the spot where it hurts. Treatment may also include electro-acupuncture, cupping, or laser therapy, depending on the injury.
Acupuncture and Pain Relief for Chronic Pain
Chronic pain lasts longer than three to six months. Over time, it can wear down energy, sleep, and mood. Conditions such as osteoarthritis, fibromyalgia, and diabetic nerve pain can make the nervous system more sensitive to pain signals.
Research supports acupuncture here. A large analysis of 39 trials and more than 20,000 patients, published in The Journal of Pain, found that acupuncture was more effective than both sham acupuncture and usual care for chronic pain. Much of the benefit lasted for at least a year. Acupuncture is also understood to encourage the release of the body’s own pain-relieving chemicals, such as endorphins.
The Classical View: Qi and Pain
In classical acupuncture theory, pain reflects blocked or stagnant Qi — the vital energy that flows through the body’s meridians. Treatment aims to restore that flow. Many patients also notice benefits beyond pain, including better sleep and a calmer mind.
Trusted by Athletes
Signed photo from former UFC featherweight Charles “Boston Strong” Rosa.
Former UFC fighter Charles “Boston Strong” Rosa knows that pain comes with the job. Like many professional athletes, he has used acupuncture as part of his recovery routine.
Start Your Path to Relief
Whether your pain is new or long-standing, acupuncture and pain relief start with a conversation about your history and goals. To learn whether acupuncture may help, call Acupuncture Zen at 561-633-3537 to schedule a visit in Delray Beach.
