Prostatitis is a condition that affects many men, causing chronic pain and discomfort in the pelvic region. Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine technique that has been used for centuries to treat a variety of conditions, including chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CP/CPPS). Recent research suggests that acupuncture may be an effective treatment for this condition.
A review of twelve trials studying the effect of acupuncture on chronic prostatitis found that acupuncture had a significant effect in reducing pain associated with the condition. The study also found that acupuncture was safe, with no serious adverse effects reported.
Acupuncture may work to alleviate the symptoms of CP/CPPS through a variety of mechanisms. One possible way is by regulating immunity. Acupuncture has been found to decrease the level of pro-inflammatory factors, increase the level of anti-inflammatory factors, and regulate the level of inflammatory regulatory factors in the body. This can help to reduce inflammation and pain in the pelvic region.
Another way acupuncture may help is by repairing tissue damage. Acupuncture has been found to improve the body's ability to deal with oxidative stress, which can help to repair damaged tissues. It can also regulate the balance between oxidation and anti-oxidation in the body, which can help to reduce inflammation and pain.
Acupuncture may also regulate neural functions by modulating neurotransmitters and autonomic nerves. This can help to reduce pain and discomfort in the pelvic region and improve urinary and ejaculatory symptoms. Acupuncture can also help to regulate the contraction of pelvic floor muscles, improving urodynamics and relieving abnormal urination symptoms. It can also promote blood circulation, which can help to release pelvic congestion and improve symptoms.
In conclusion, acupuncture appears to be an effective and safe treatment option for chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome. It may work by regulating immunity, repairing tissue damage, regulating neural functions, and improving urodynamics and blood circulation. If you are suffering from chronic prostatitis, acupuncture may be worth considering as a potential treatment option.
References
Zongshi Qin et al Eur Urol Open Sci. 2022 Dec; 46: 55–67.
Zhi-haoLI et al World Journal of Acupuncture - Moxibustion
Volume 31, Issue 4, October 2021, Pages 309-313
