Acupuncture: An Alternative Treatment for Pain Relief

Wielding a very fine needle, Dr. K.C. Chang locates the precise point and very gently, painlessly, inserts it into the skin. Professionally tapping the specific site within the body’s trouble-some meridian, Dr. Chang’s treatment introduces a stimulation of endorphins through the art of Medical Acupuncture. Used as an alternative treatment option, acupuncture can deliver pain relief and renewed life energy.

As one of a few board-certified physicians in South Dakota licensed in electrodiagnostic medicine, K.C. Chang, MD, Orthopedic Institute, specializes in nonsurgical treatment of the spine. As a physiatrist, Dr. Chang’s treatment methods often include the use of acupuncture. He adds, “After my residency training and during my practice, I became disillusioned with the conventional treatment options for some of my neck and back patients. I have used acupuncture on patients for over 14 years and I find amazing pain control results.”

Dr. Chang says acupuncture is based on the theory that an essential life energy called QI flows through the body along invisible channels called meridians. When the flow of QI is blocked or out of balance, illness and pain results. He adds, “According to Chinese theory, stimulation of specific points along the meridians can correct the flow of QI and result in pain relief.”

Noting a rise in the popularity of medical acupuncture, Dr. Chang adds, “Approximately 10% of the American population has tried acupuncture for pain on improving the functioning statuses control due to neck and back problems. in life. Most patients ask for acupuncture after pain control of common musculoskeletal problems, such as neck and low back physical therapy, back surgeries, pain, joint problems or muscle problems, or injections. My specialty focuses and improving everyday life functions.”

“More and more patients are seeking alternative treatments for musculoskeletal problems.”

Also within the field of medical acupuncture is the use of electroacupuncture. Dr. Chang explains, “Electroacupuncture is the use of electrical currents to induce stimulation directly to the needles at certain acupoints. After the needle as been placed in the skin, it is hooked up to electrical pulses; the electroacupuncture uses low frequency of 2-4 hz and high intensity. It involves endorphinergic mechanism, generates a slow onset of analgesia, and has longer lasting results.”

Documented as safe and reputable treatment, Dr. Chang adds, “The use of acupuncture and electroacupuncture has been recommended by the World Health Organization for 40 medical conditions ranging from asthma to chronic pain. In 1999, the National Institute of Health found it to be acceptable treatment for many pain conditions, including fibromyalgia and general musculoskeletal pain.”

How would you rate your pain level on a scale of 1-10? The question is routinely asked during a visit with Dr. Chang. He shares details about the positive responses he receives from acupuncture treatment. “Once you provide needle treatment 1-2 times per week, typically up to 10 treatments, the patient usually begins to use less medication, walks better and is able to find relief from pain.”

In closing, Dr. Chang says, “I am excited that more and more patients are seeking alternative treatments for musculoskeletal problems. My hope is that acupuncture is used as one treatment option for musculoskeletal pain.”