For humans, having healthy blood circulation is essential to survival. Life would end if the blood flow was poor. Circulation is crucial because of what the blood is transporting, not just because of the blood itself. Blood provides nutrients that humans receive from meals, hormones, and new oxygen. Without these elements, the body’s tissues and organs deteriorate, get weaker, and eventually quit working. The brain and the rest of the body can’t get the oxygen they require if there are any blockages in the veins and arteries, which can result in a wide range of severe health problems.
Poor Blood Flow and Its Complications
Numerous people experience poor circulation, which is sometimes referred to as a silent killer. Poor circulation is an issue that affects thousands of people worldwide. Many people believe that blood circulation problems are not a serious concern that should be addressed before it is too late and for years. Pain, numbness, tingling, cold hands and feet, and even irregular heartbeats can all be symptoms of poor blood flow.
The potential for blood clots is another side effect of impaired circulation. Blood clots can be quite harmful. They can become dislodged, go to the heart, lungs, or brain, block important blood vessels, and cause a stroke or heart attack.
Poor lifestyle choices, poor diet, smoking, alcoholism, pinched nerves, bacterial and viral infections, and even excessive stress are some of the many factors that contribute to poor circulation. Other factors include excessive cholesterol buildup in the arteries, obesity, diabetes, and other health conditions. Weakness in the limbs, lack of feeling, acute sensitivity, tingling, numbness, burning, and pain are all signs of poor circulation. If circulation problems are not addressed, they may eventually cause the tissues to become black and die, necessitating amputation.
Modern medicine uses prescription drugs, angioplasty, surgical stent implantation, and even amputation to treat impaired circulation. All of these treatments have the potential to produce severe adverse effects, and any procedure entails a potentially lengthy recovery time. But there are also other options.
How Does Acupuncture Boost Circulation
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is a long-established, conventional medical practice. TCM uses herbal remedies, acupuncture, and other methods to treat the symptoms of poor circulation while also addressing its underlying causes.
Because acupuncture needles increase nitric oxide production in the body, it is particularly effective at improving blood circulation. A crucial regulator of localized circulation is nitric oxide. Therefore, the blood flow and circulation to the tissues increase in proportion to the amount of nitric oxide. Treatments with acupuncture have also been demonstrated to promote the release of chemicals like leukotrienes and antihistamines, which both expand blood vessels and lessen tissue swelling. Blood flow increases to the parts of the body that aren’t getting enough oxygen because of this.
Another element of TCM is the use of herbs and herbal formulations. Foods such as garlic, ginger, turmeric, and cayenne pepper can be very beneficial for those suffering from poor circulation. However, we advise that adding these herbs needs to be discussed with a physician if you are already taking blood thinners for a circulatory problem. The application of herbs and herbal mixtures is another aspect of TCM. For people with poor circulation, foods like garlic, ginger, turmeric, and cayenne pepper can be quite helpful. However, if you are already taking blood thinners for a circulatory issue, we urge that adding these herbs should be discussed with a doctor.
Need Help Improving Your Blood Flow? We’re Here to Help.
Poor circulation can be painful and can even be deadly in some cases, but it doesn’t have to be. Contact us today to learn more about how TCM and acupuncture can help you with your circulation problems.
