Does Acupuncture Help With Addiction Recovery at Treatment Programs in Hawaii?

Holistic therapies have become more widespread for addiction treatment centers in Hawaii and other challenging concerns like depression, anxiety, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Rather than simply focusing on an issue and treating it with medication, holistic approaches aim to incorporate medication if needed, along with other less invasive modalities to help a person in recovery. 

Acupuncture is a prevalent holistic practice used for centuries in the Eastern world but is still somewhat new to the West. This therapy originated in China and has been practiced since 2500 BC. According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, it is a holistic “technique in which practitioners stimulate specific points on the body — most often used by inserting thin needles through the skin.”

With acupuncture therapy, needles are used on specific body parts to help restore and bring balance to the body. It is based on a meridian system in the body. Much like the nervous system, these channels allow energy to circulate throughout the body.

Many people who have utilized acupuncture as part of their treatment program have stated that acupuncture can help reduce cravings, anxiety, difficulty sleeping, and inherent needs for medication. 

People who experience different levels of pain may also find that acupuncture can significantly assist in relieving some of those points by opening the flow of Qi (also considered the force of life energy) throughout the body. While it may seem odd that this treatment method works, it’s been found to help many people.

Other common conditions that acupuncture may help include: 

Acupuncture can also lead to an improved immune system and aid in promoting a more optimistic outlook towards life because it treats the whole person, bringing balance to the mind, body, and spirit.

Using acupuncture to help overcome addiction began in the 1970s and is currently recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the National Institute of Health (NIH) to treat numerous conditions. In 1996, “the World Health Organization (WHO) listed 64 medical problems that were considered suitable for acupuncture treatment, including the treatment of drug abuse.”

According to this research, there are specific benefits to using acupuncture to treat substance use disorder (SUD). These benefits include:

According to research published by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), “patients choosing outpatient programs with acupuncture were less likely to relapse in the six months following discharge.”

NADA is a form of acupuncture that focuses on the ear. According to research, “the National Acupuncture Detoxification Association protocol (NADA) is one of the most commonly used forms of acupuncture treatment in the United States.” 

When used with other evidence-based addiction treatment modalities, NADA has been shown to lessen the effects of withdrawal symptoms during substance detox. It is also an effective form of therapy that can be used for heroin, alcohol, and cocaine addiction as part of a more extensive treatment program. 

With NADA therapy, practitioners will take a few minutes to insert the thin needles into the ear. Following this, the individual will sit quietly in a dimly lit room for the remainder of the session. The effects of this therapy may be felt immediately, leaving the individual with a sense of calm and well-being. 

It is important to note that acupuncture should not be used as a stand-alone treatment for addiction recovery. This therapy must be used as part of an ongoing treatment plan to help one manage their sobriety. 

At Hawaii Island Recovery, we know the importance of treating the whole person, not just their addiction. We offer a comprehensive treatment program customized for every individual, targeting healing of their mind, body, and soul. 

At our treatment centers in Hawaii, acupuncture may be used as part of our medically supervised detox program or outpatient and aftercare programs. Acupuncture is used to support the organ systems that are involved in the detoxification of the body. We also use acupuncture therapy to stimulate or calm the nervous system. To help bring balance back to the body, reduce alcohol and drug cravings, and help prevent relapse. 

In addition to acupuncture, we offer a variety of other holistic-based therapies, including ocean-based experiential therapy, medicine walks, and more. 

If you’re ready to experience complete healing and restoration, speak with a professional from Hawaii Island Recovery today. Holistic treatment options like acupuncture are widely available for your use. As well as other incredible services that can make for a pleasant treatment experience. If you’re willing to give acupuncture a try, you may be pleased to find that there are very few side effects involved. When included as part of a treatment plan, acupuncture has been shown to be highly effective for substance abuse treatment. If you or a loved one need help to overcome an addiction or mental health disorder, reach out to Hawaii Island Recovery today. Our drug and alcohol treatment centers offer medical detox programs, rehabilitation services, and aftercare plans to help you successfully manage your sobriety. Our trained professionals are willing to help you with your needs at any time. Call us today to learn more about our holistic approach to treatment at (866) 390-5070.