Acupuncture for Cervical Spondylotic Radiculopathy Acupuncture is a widely used and effective non-drug treatment for cervical radiculopathy (nerve pain from the neck), reducing pain and improving function by releasing natural painkillers decreasing inflammation, relaxing muscle spasms, and improving local circulation, often showing better results than traction alone and enhancing other therapies like physical therapy. Different techniques like traditional needling, acupotomy , electroacupuncture, and moxibustion are used, though more direct comparisons are needed, with studies highlighting high safety and efficacy, especially when combined with other treatments. How it works Mechanisms Neurochemical Release: Stimulates the body to release endorphins natural opioids and other pain-relieving substances like CGRP. Anti-inflammatory: Modulates pathways to reduce pro-inflammatory cytokines Mechanical Effects: Reduces muscle spasms, lessens pressure on nerve roots, and improves blood flow in the affected area. Central Nervous System Modulation: Influences brain areas involved in pain processing, like the thalamus and prefrontal cortex, and affects spinal cord activity. Effectiveness & Safety High Efficacy: Studies show significant pain reduction, often better than traction therapy alone for cervical spondylotic radiculopathy Enhanced Combined Therapy: Acupuncture combined with herbal medicine, bloodletting, or traction often yields better results than single treatments. Safe: Generally considered a safe therapy with a high safety profile, though proper technique is crucial to avoid rare complications like local infections or temporary dizziness.