Acupuncture, an ancient practice embedded in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for over 2,500 years, stands as a holistic beacon in healthcare. The strategic insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body aims to harmonize the body’s vital energy, known as Qi. This time-tested approach has gained global popularity since the 1970s, as indicated by the World Health Organization (WHO), reporting its utilization in 103 out of 129 countries. This article delves into the intricate world of acupuncture, focusing on its diverse applications in men’s health and vitality.
Acupuncture operates on the principle that the body is an interconnected system, where the manipulation of Qi can bring about overall well-being. Thin needles are skillfully inserted into the body, manually manipulated, or stimulated with electrical currents (electroacupuncture). Acupuncture treats the whole person, not only a specific symptom. Since the body is completely interconnected, symptoms that may seem unrelated often have a common core. This holistic approach extends beyond the use of needles, incorporating various components of TCM, such as Chinese herbs, Asian bodywork, Qi Gong, and Tai Chi. The integration of these practices aims to harmonizes all aspects of a person’s being – the body, the mind and the emotions or spirit. In this way, acupuncture can support a person with general well-being as well as through major health crises.
The acupuncturist will conduct a thorough examination of the individual to assess their condition.
Delicate insertion of one or more thin, sterile needles at specific points on the body.
Individuals will typically sit or lie down during the procedure.
The acupuncturist should use single-use, disposable, sterile needles. People may feel a very brief stinging or tingling sensation upon needle insertion.
Individuals may then experience a mild ache at the base of the inserted needles.
Typically, the needles will stay in place for 20–60 minutes, the duration varying based on the specific procedure.
In some practices, the acupuncturist may choose to apply heat to the needles after insertion.
The number of treatments needed depends on the individual’s case. For chronic conditions, one or two sessions per week over several months may be necessary. Acute health issues often show improvement after 8 to 12 sessions.
Acupuncture contributes significantly to the overall well-being of individuals by addressing interconnected aspects of the body, mind, and spirit. When viewed from a conventional medicine perspective, acupuncture is thought to activate the central nervous system. This may stimulate the release of neurochemicals that trigger a variety of biological changes in the body intended to promote healing and physical or even emotional well-being.
Acupuncture is most often used to attempt pain relief, though acupuncturists say that it can also be used for a wide range of other conditions. Research supports its efficacy in managing pain, including back or neck pain, knee pain associated with osteoarthritis, and postoperative pain. It may also help relieve joint pain associated with the use of aromatase inhibitors, which are drugs used in people with breast cancer.
An analysis of data from 20 studies (6,376 participants) of people with painful conditions (back pain, osteoarthritis, neck pain, or headaches) showed that the beneficial effects of acupuncture continued for a year after the end of treatment for all conditions except neck pain.
By stimulating specific points on the body with fine needles, acupuncture can alleviate stress, improve sleep, and enhance overall well-being. In the realm of men’s health, acupuncture has been shown to effectively address issues such as erectile dysfunction, subfertility, and prostate concerns. Moreover, it aids in managing chronic pain, boosting energy levels, and balancing hormones. As a holistic approach, acupuncture offers men a natural and complementary option for maintaining physical and mental health, emphasizing the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit.
In the realm of men’s health, acupuncture emerges as a vital player, addressing specific issues unique to men. From impotence and male subfertilityto prostatitis, acupuncture offers a multifaceted approach to promote overall health and vitality.
Male, accounting for 40 to 50 percent of infertility cases, presents a significant challenge for couples aspiring to conceive. Acupuncture, as recognized by Johns Hopkins Medicine, unveils its potential as a therapeutic modality for male subfertility. Ongoing research suggests that acupuncture might not only alleviate existing conditions but also enhance sperm quality.
Recent Studies on Acupuncture for Male Subfertility
Recent studies have shown that acupuncture can effectively increase sperm production, improve sperm movement (motility), increase the percentage of healthy sperm, improve the levels of hormones responsible for fertility, and increase pregnancy rate when used in conjunction with ART studies.
This study is conducted on forty men with at least one of three problems with their sperm were treated with acupuncture twice a week for 5 weeks. A statistically significant increase after acupuncture in the percentage and number of sperm with no structural defects was demonstrated compared to the control group of patients who received no treatment. They concluded that male subfertility patients could benefit from having acupuncture.
Another research is done on28 subfertilepatients with severe oligoasthenozoospermia (high percentage of poorly swimming sperm ie, poor mobility) received acupuncture according to the principles of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), and 29 subfertilitypatients received placebo acupuncture. The men in the study who received acupuncture had significant improvements in the percentage of sufficiently motile sperm.
Another prospective, controlled, and blind study put two randomized groups of infertile men into an acupuncture group and a control group. After 10 treatments, the acupuncture group patients demonstrated a significant increase in the percentage of normal forms compared to the control group.
The prostate gland, a key component of male reproductive health, plays a crucial role in producing seminal fluid. If you are experiencing symptoms of frequent urination, hesitancy, dribbling, pain with urination or getting up to urinate during the night, acupuncture provides a systematic approach to the overall body constitution and the underlying causes of your symptoms. Prostatitis is the inflammation of the prostate that can cause urinary symptoms and pelvic pain. The most common type is chronic non-bacterial prostatitis. Symptoms may include a frequent and urgent need to urinate, pain or a burning sensation when urinating or pain in the pelvic area, lower back and genital area.
Recent Studies on Acupuncture for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)
Acupuncture treatment for BPH has been shown to reduce feelings of urinary urgency, decrease urinary frequency, and improve flow. Studies have also demonstrated that acupuncture treatments can significantly decrease the size of the prostate.
A clinical trial of 100 patients treated with acupuncture for BPH over the course of 6 weeks showed that over 90% of the men responded positively, reporting less pain in the prostate and improved urinary functioning.
A systematic review of eight studies involving over 650 men treated for BPH with TCM showed significant positive changes in men’s health outcomes.
A review of studies using Chinese herbs for BPH suggested that herbal treatment for BPH may work even better than alpha-blockers.
Erectile dysfunction (ED), a condition affecting men’s sexual health, is characterized by the persistent inability to achieve or sustain an erection suitable for sexual activity. This multifaceted issue can stem from various factors, including physical, psychological, and lifestyle elements. Physically, problems with blood flow, nerve damage, hormonal imbalances, or anatomical issues may contribute. Psychological factors, such as stress, anxiety, depression, or relationship problems, can also play a significant role. Additionally, lifestyle choices like smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and a sedentary routine can contribute to ED.
The symptoms of erectile dysfunction are straightforward but impactful, primarily manifesting as the inability to engage in sexual intercourse due to insufficient or absent erections. Beyond the physical aspect, men may experience reduced sexual desire and challenges in ejaculation. The implications of ED extend beyond the bedroom, affecting various aspects of daily life. Emotional distress, including frustration and embarrassment, may arise, leading to diminished self-esteem. Relationship strain is also common, as intimacy and communication can be compromised. Ultimately, the condition can diminish overall life satisfaction and contribute to mental health issues, such as depression.
Recent Studies on Acupuncture for ED
Researchers have explored the effects of acupuncture on erectile dysfunction (ED), postulating that it may indirectly benefit cardiovascular health, a pivotal factor in ED. Acupuncture offers stress relief, serves as a minimally invasive procedure with few side effects, and provides an alternative for those unwilling or unable to use medication. Its potential to improve blood circulation, release hormones, and stimulate nerves positions it as a promising complementary treatment for ED.
Yes, acupuncture is generally safe when done by appropriately trained practitioners using clean needle technique and single-use needles.
The timeline for acupuncture effectiveness varies based on the specific condition. Some may experience immediate relief, while others may see gradual improvement over multiple sessions.
Preliminary research and studies suggest a potential role for acupuncture in improving sperm quality, making it a complementary option for men facing fertility challenges.
Yes, acupuncture can complement various treatments, enhancing overall therapeutic outcomes. Collaborative approaches that integrate acupuncture with conventional methods are increasingly recognized.
Acupuncture is generally well-tolerated, and the insertion of thin needles is often described as painless. People may experience a slight sensation during insertion, such as tingling or a dull ache, but it is typically brief and mild. The focus is on creating a comfortable and relaxing experience.
As men navigate the aging process, they may encounter challenges such as male subfertility and prostatitis. However, steps can be taken to minimize these issues. If experiencing symptoms like pain in the prostate, urgency to urinate, or difficulties emptying the bladder, acupuncture and herbal remedies may offer relief. Unlike medical treatments, acupuncture for men’s health issues has no downside, making it a viable option. Golden Gate Fertility Centre, with over 25 years of experience, uniquely combines high-tech Western medical diagnosis with traditional Chinese medical theory. Using 100% herbal medication, they specialize in treating couples dealing with infertility problems, ensuring a comprehensive and holistic approach to men’s health. Visit Golden Gate Fertility Centre today for a blend of advanced diagnostics and traditional wisdom in men’s health.
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Dieterle, S., Li, C., Greb, R., Bartzsch, F., Hatzmann, W., & Huang, D. (2009). “A prospective randomized placebo-controlled study of the effect of acupuncture in infertile patients with severe oligoasthenozoospermia.” Fertility and sterility, 92(4), 1340–1343. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fertnstert.2009.02.041
Gurfinkel, E., Cedenho, A. P., Yamamura, Y., & Srougi, M. (2003). “Effects of acupuncture and moxa treatment in patients with semen abnormalities.” Asian journal of andrology, 5(4), 345–348.
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Pei, J., Strehler, E., Noss, U., Abt, M., Piomboni, P., Baccetti, B., & Sterzik, K. (2005). “Quantitative evaluation of spermatozoa ultrastructure after acupuncture treatment for idiopathic male infertility.” Fertility and sterility, 84(1), 141–147. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fertnstert.2004.12.056
Sahin, S., Bicer, M., Eren, G. et al. “Acupuncture relieves symptoms in chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome: a randomized, sham-controlled trial.” Prostate Cancer Prostatic Dis 18, 249–254 (2015). https://doi.org/10.1038/pcan.2015.13
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Wang, H., Zhao, M., Zhang, J., Yan, B., Liu, S., Zhao, F., Guo, J., & Wang, F. (2022). “The Efficacy of Acupuncture on Patients with Erectile Dysfunction: A Review.” Evidence-based complementary and alternative medicine : eCAM, 2022, 4807271. https://doi.org/10.1155/2022/4807271
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