As an alternative therapy, acupuncture aids in the natural process of healing, because putting thin needles into specific key points stimulates the body’s endorphins and other neurotransmitters. If any features of an addictive illness are to emerge, acupuncture must be a part of it because it helps to calm cravings and general withdrawal symptoms, as well as mood and quality of life.

Acupuncture in the treatment of addiction, particularly heroin, was introduced in the 1970s in the Lincoln Memorial Hospital in New York – allegedly more effectively than through prescribing methadone. This hospital’s physician Michael O. Smith established the National Acupuncture Detoxification Association (NADA) in 1985 to campaign for auricular acupuncture, or ear acupuncture, in the treatment of addiction.

Today, auricular acupuncture is the most commonly used and recommended form of acupuncture in addiction treatment. The NADA Protocol involves inserting five needles into specific points in the ear:

1. Shen Men Point
2. Kidney Point
3. Lung Point
4. Sympathetic Point
5. Liver Point

Each acupuncture point is believed to produce a different effect, such as detoxifying the blood (Liver) or soothing anxiety (Shen Men). Before starting acupuncture treatment, it’s important to identify any underlying health conditions that may contribute to the addiction and target those areas for pain relief.

If you are planning to include acupuncture in an addiction recovery strategy, look for a licensed acupuncturist who is a graduate of an accredited acupuncture school, has suitable clinical experience in the treatment of addiction and mental and emotional disorders, and can refer you to a practitioner with the right experience and specialty for your needs. During the initial consultation, your acupuncturist will design a treatment plan that takes into account your condition and the symptoms and goals related to your recovery.

One forms a bit of a ‘package’, and so is more invested than a passing whim that is not worth pursuing. How long are the sessions? Generally, acupuncture sessions last between 30-60 minutes, involving the insertion of fine needles into strategically precise points on the body. The needles are retained for a period of time, often stimulated by the acupuncturist for a portion of the treatment time so as to enhance the effectiveness of the procedure. Depending on the severity of the addiction and the needs of the individual, several weeks or even months of regular attendance might be needed to constitute a complete course of treatment. Thus, planning recurrent sessions allows for retention and progress that wouldn’t be achieved otherwise.

There is no universal solution to treating addiction. Traditional methods such as medication-assisted treatment and behavioral therapy have proven effective, and acupuncture can complement these programs. While acupuncture alone may not be sufficient for addiction treatment, when used alongside other forms of treatment, it can offer several benefits.

Benefit #1: Improves Mood and Reduces Stress and Anxiety

Acupuncture can enhance mood, reduce stress, and alleviate anxiety, common triggers for relapse. It stimulates the release of endorphins, which can have a therapeutic effect on the mind and body. By reducing stress and anxiety, individuals are better equipped to manage cravings and maintain sobriety.

Benefit #2: Eases Withdrawal Symptoms

Acupuncture can also help ease withdrawal symptoms, a significant hurdle for individuals overcoming addiction. It has been shown to be effective in reducing symptoms such as nausea, insomnia, and pain, making the recovery process more tolerable and manageable.

Benefit #3: Enhances Mind-Body Connection

Acupuncture can enhance the mind-body connection, which is beneficial for individuals in recovery. By stimulating specific points on the body, it can help restore balance and promote feelings of relaxation and inner peace, addressing both physical and emotional aspects of the healing process.

By combining acupuncture with other forms of addiction treatment, individuals can benefit from a more holistic approach to recovery, addressing both physical and emotional challenges.