Most chronic pain is due to myofascial pain, related to the constriction of the connective tissue surrounding muscles in spasm. Muscles only remain in spasm if there are motor neurones constantly causing them to contract. And constant activation of the motor neurones only occurs when spinal reflexes activating those neurones are in turn triggered by pathological brain reflex patterns.
Now a basic concept in auriculotherapy is that nerves in the skin overlying specific areas of the external ear, (the microsystem) correspond to specific parts of the brain which has reflex connections to the body (the macrosystem). By stimulating ear reflex points that connect to the body mapped reflex system in the brain, the pathological brain patterns can be electrically reset to stop the unwanted activation of the spinal reflexes – the muscles are once again able to relax.
In addition to these neurological explanations, it is also theorised that pain relief from auriculotherapy is achieved by the hormonal release of endorphins – the body’s own ‘morphine-like’ molecules. Both animal research and human studies have shown that stimulation or ear acupuncture points appears to cause the systemic release of endorphins. Furthermore, administration of the morphine blocker naloxone partially blocks the analgesia produced by either auriculotherapy or by acupuncture.
From a Traditional Chinese Medicine perspective, pain is due to the blockage of Qi (pronounced chee) energy in the acupuncture meridian channels of the body – the macro-acupuncture system. By stimulating specific ear points in the auricular microsystem, two-way connections are activated in the body macrosystem, leading to a balancing of energy and an increase flow of Qi.
Arrange auriculotherapy in Brighton & Hove
Feel free to get in touch for soothing, relaxing, effective Somatic Experiencing (SE®), auriculotherapy and five element acupuncture in Brighton & Hove.
Just call on 01273 776020 or 07730 683181 for an informal chat or