Researches

Excellent clinical evidence supports the use of acupuncture for addiction control. The first acupuncture detoxification clinic in the United States opened in 1974, at the Lincoln Memorial Hospital in the South Bronx section of New York City. At first, acupuncture was used as an adjunct to methadone treatment, but such good results were obtained with acupuncture that methadone was dropped from the program. According to Dr. Michael Smith, director, the success rate with acupuncture is substantially higher than that of more conventional programs. Unlike methadone, which is itself a highly addictive drug that is used primarily as a heroin substitute for heroin addicts, acupuncture is a natural procedure with no side effects, and it can treat a wide range of addictions. It works equally well for cocaine and crack addicts, heroin addicts, alcoholics, users of psychedelics, and people addicted to barbiturates and amphetamines. Addicts report a marked reduction in craving for drugs, a relief from symptoms of withdrawal, and feelings of relaxation along with improved sleep.

Research has shown that acupuncture can raise the level of endorphins in the nervous system. It seems that the cravings and withdrawal symptoms experienced by people giving up smoking or drugs can be alleviated by raising the level of endorphins in the nervous system. That explains how acupuncture works for detoxification. (The above content is copied from Mr. Steve Philips’ website: www.acupuncturehealingarts.com

Dr. Yan’s Acupuncture Detoxification

Before you start the treatment, you have to be mentally READY! It needs your strong will power to ensure good results. The day when you start the acupuncture is the day you stop the addiction. The goals of acupuncture are to lessen your desire and relieve withdrawal symptoms.

Based on Brain Activate acupuncture and Stress Management acupuncture, Dr. Yan’s detoxification protocol contains the following:

• Whole body acupuncture
• Scalp acupuncture
• Auricular acupuncture
• Electric stimulation

Patients usually come twice a week for 3 weeks. Smoking, alcoholics and mild drug addiction can be stopped after 6 sessions with fewer withdrawal symptoms. For severe drug addiction, the treatment might need to be 3 times a week for 2 or 3 weeks and then once a week up to 12 sessions.