Please note that this blog post is the second part of a series in which we discuss PTSD, its symptoms and treatment methods. We suggest you read the first part, as it will provide foundational information about PTSD. Please click here to view that post: Treating PTSD – Part 1
What are some types of treatment for PTSD?
Western medicine, particularly the fields of psychology and psychiatry, provide treatment options for those who have been diagnosed with PTSD. One option that has been widely used is trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy. This is a type of therapy that methodically and slowly reintroduces the individual to stimuli (feelings, thoughts, situations, sounds) that are reminiscent of the original trauma. In addition to this re-exposure, there is an effort to identify disturbing thoughts about the trauma that may have been convoluted due to the nature of the experience. Once these thoughts are brought to light, a new, balanced and positive perspective is introduced. [Link]
Psychotropic medications are another option presented by Western medicine that can be used for those people who suffer with PTSD and also are experiencing anxiety and depression. These types of medications can improve the quality of life but will not address the root cause, yet many people suffering with PTSD choose this option as it can provide some relief.
Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) is a relatively new treatment method that has found success in reducing symptoms of PTSD. EMDR involves making side-to-side eye movements, usually by following the movement while recalling the traumatic incident. Currently there is no definitive explanation as to how EMDR works; it is believed that it may affect the part of the brain which is tasked with storing traumatic memories. [Link]
From an Eastern medical perspective, the symptoms presented by those who have PTSD can be classified as disharmonies within the body. Acupuncture and Chinese herbs are effective, natural and holistic options that can be used individually or combined together to synergistically provide relief and improve quality of life. Traditional Chinese Medicine’s main focus is on bringing the body back to balance. A licensed acupuncturist accomplishes this task by using differential diagnoses to identify what the root cause is of the symptoms that are being experienced. They will then create a treatment plan that will alleviate the symptoms while focusing on resolving the core issue(s).
Is acupuncture effective for treating PTSD?
Acupuncture, along with Chinese herbs, has been proven to help provide significant relief to individuals suffering with symptoms of PTSD. As the number of people affected by this disorder increases, more attention and studies have taken place in an effort to find viable treatment options. The effectiveness of acupuncture on resolving PTSD was discussed in an article published in the Natural Medicine Journal titled “Acupuncture for the Treatment of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder: A Review of Evidence-Based Research”. [Link]
Testing was performed on a control group that was composed of individuals diagnosed with PTSD. The conclusion was that acupuncture demonstrated a significant reduction in the symptoms of PTSD. They had also found that acupuncture was extremely effective at reducing, and at times completely alleviating, symptoms such as migraines, anxiety, depression, and insomnia.
While this is only one scientific study, it helps bolster support for a treatment method that has successfully helped many people who suffer with this anxiety disorder. Acupuncture and Chinese herbs are a legitimate, effective and natural way of healing the body and calming the mind. By bringing balance and harmony to the body and spirit, peace can be attained, helping to alleviate needless suffering.
