Acupuncture on Ear for Immediate Pain Relief

Auricular acupuncture is a micro-acupuncture technique involving the stimulation of specific points in the ears. It may be comparable to reflexology. The auricular diagnosis and treatment, though historically practiced in China for a range of ailments, has developed into a distinctive branch in itself in various parts of the world.

When internal disorders occur, changes such as tenderness, decreased cutaneous electrical resistance, morphologic changes, or discoloration may appear at specific  acupuncture on ear points and hence these points are used as reference points to treat or ameliorate the health issue.

History of auricular – Acupuncture Therapy 

The primitive versions of acupuncture, which were most likely developed during the Stone Age have survived in many parts of the world until the present day. There are references to different body channels and vessels that are more like the Chinese system of channels known since the 15th century. During the Renaissance the doctors working with the Dutch East India Company were impressed by Chinese acupuncture practices and observed the efficiency of using needles and moxa, cauterizing the external ear, or severing the veins behind the ears for treating illnesses like sciatica and hip arthritis. The use of ear cauterization by European medical professionals to treat a range of pains is then mentioned in numerous sources.

Dr. Paul Nogier rediscovered this kind of therapy a century after its original discovery. Dr. Nogier had noticed that the hand’s radial pulse underwent a noticeable alteration when certain areas on the auricle (Ear) were stimulated. Later, he originated the concept of the inverted fetal map on the external ear and systemically mapped the auricular/body correspondences. Dr. Paul Nogier has been regarded as the Father of contemporary ear acupuncture.

How did acupuncture on ear healing work? 

The ear is a unique anatomical structure that is built up of tissue from each of the three primary tissue types found in an embryo. Each tissue type in the ear has a link to various somato-topical reflections and to the innervation related to that part of the ear.

The auricular diagnosis uses parts of the external ear that are darker, discolored, or flaky to identify certain health issues in the body. Pathological ear sites are more sensitive and have greater skin conductance levels than other auricular regions, which helps identify corresponding health problems that the patient may be marginally aware of.

From a Western medical viewpoint, the nervous innervations of the ear are the leading explanation of how and why ear acupuncture works. The nerves that innervate the ear connect with our internal organs and all parts of the body. Applying pressure to the external ear stimulates these nerves, which travel to the central nervous system, stimulating neurotransmitters that alleviate pain.

The ear is also richly supplied with blood vessels. Auriculotherapy improves peripheral blood flow, circulating more oxygen and nutrients throughout the body. And just like in full-body acupuncture treatments, endorphins and enkephalins (our natural painkillers/ “feel good” hormones) are elevated after auricular treatments!

In Chinese Medicine, your health depends on the flow of qi and blood in your body. This energy travels along invisible pathways, known as meridians. Meridian pathways travel all over the body, including to the ears. Stimulating ear points can help balance the flow of qi and blood, promoting overall health.

Ear points for Relaxation and pain reduction

There are hundreds of ear acupuncture points, and limitless point combinations to choose from. The ear points Heart, Shen Men and Point Zero is a powerful 3-point combinations for promoting overall relaxation and general well-being. Each point has its unique energy and action on the body:

1. Heart point: strengthens our spirit and calms the mind, invites joy, eases anxiety, treats insomnia, restlessness, and chest tightness, and boosts memory and concentration.

2. Shen men “spirit gate”: most widely used as a sedative point; quiets the heart, calms the spirit, reduces pain and inflammation, eases anxiety, and promotes detoxification.

3. Diaphragm (“point zero”): grounding and centering, reduces tension, promotes deep breathing, supports solar plexus and all organ systems between the diaphragm and umbilicus.

Conditions for which Auricular – Acupuncture healing is helpful 

Auriculotherapy can be used successfully on its own or in combination with full-body acupuncture to enhance treatment results. Ear acupuncture and ear seeds stimulate the body to heal itself and help people feel calm, relaxed, more in their bodies, and less pain.

Auricular acupuncture can be used for a wide range of health concerns, and it is especially useful to

• Relieve pain – Auricular therapy has a strong function to stop pain; often the pain will be relieved once the needle is inserted. It may be helpful in different types of pain such as Pain from trauma, pain due to nerve disorders, and infections.
• chronic pain, especially low back pain
• migraine
• anxiety
• insomnia
• cancer pain and chemotherapy side effects
• obesity
• substance use disorder
• depression
• digestive issues
• Allergies
• Calm the mind
• Regulate endocrine system disorders

What should I expect from a session?

Auriculo-acupuncture is procedurally similar to traditional acupuncture but it exclusively focuses on the ears. The needles will be inserted on the external part of the ear, it will be done in a seated position. It helps relieve pain and discomfort and restore normal functioning and range of motion.

To begin with, the practitioner may ask a few questions to understand your life such as sleeping habits

• past or current medical issues
• mental health concerns
• diet and digestion

If you’re having acupuncture done on your ear, you’ll likely spend the session in a seated position.

Next, the practitioner will begin inserting needs. This may sting briefly, though some people don’t report feeling anything during the session.

With the needles inserted, you’ll sit quietly for the duration of the session. Finally, the needles will be removed, which is usually painless.

End note 

Acupuncture in the ear is an alternative treatment, where the needles are inserted at the site corresponding to the affected organ or health concern. The same point can be used to treat over- and under-functioning. For example, point Hunger can be used to treat both an appetite that is too large and one that is too small. Acupuncture to the ear may help with common health issues, from chronic pain to calming the mind as well for de-addiction. If you’re interested in trying alternative treatments or haven’t had much luck with other approaches, auricular acupuncture might be worth a try. Be sure to see a licensed acupuncturist.

If you’re interested in practicing the aforementioned acupuncture therapy under our guidance, feel free to get in touch with us for personalized Consultations and more.

A Word From WG

Wellness Garden is your committed partner in seeking comprehensive natural and holistic therapies to address all your pain and wellness requirements. Our approach encompasses the entirety of your body, mind, and environment, integrating body, mind, and nutrition therapy and various other techniques.

Whether you’re facing physical or mental health concerns, life hurdles, or simply aiming to enhance your overall well-being, we’re here to provide the support you need. Get in touch with us to explore the possibilities and embark on your journey towards holistic therapy and improved health.