Studies of acupuncture show the adrenal gland can be stimulated by acupuncture, which may help the body cope with stress both before, during, and after surgery. Specific applications of acupuncture can affect the lung, helping to protect against the adverse effects of general anesthesia on the respiratory tract. This may be especially helpful for people with lung disease. If there is any pain associated with the condition for which surgery is being performed, acupuncture may reduce pain before surgery, which can help reduce both short term and long term post-operative pain. Nausea and vomiting which sometimes occur after surgery, can be treated with acupuncture, as may some cases of slowed bowel function after abdominal surgery.
Wound healing is enhanced by acupuncture.
Research shows that for many conditions, good pain control prior to surgery, reduces both short term and long term post-operative pain. Well known for pain alleviating effects, acupuncture has the potential to play a prominent role in this area. It may be possible to reduce medication requirements, and improve performance with physical therapy, and general mobility. Many research reports show that acupuncture can be helpful for reducing the pain, inflammation, and muscle spasm associated with osteoarthritis. This type of arthritis most commonly affects large joints such as the hips, knees, and the back, and is related to ongoing wear and tear.