I’ve been lifting for a long time and, like most of us, I have sore joints. I’ve also “tweaked” muscles from time to time from overexertion, etc.
About 10 years ago, kind of on a whim, I tried acupuncture on the recommendation of a co-worker. Believe me when I say, I am the worlds biggest skeptic when it comes to things like this but now I am its biggest advocate. I don’t know how it is with other practitioners but my guy never talks about “chi” or energy or any of that bullshit. It is strictly interrupting a nerve pathway to control pain or to enhance blood flow to things like tendons.
I have had way more relief provided from acupuncture than from any mainstream dr. You all know the drill, we hurt something and all drs do is tell you to take pain relievers or “just don’t do that anymore”, which we all know isn’t the answer most of us are looking for. We want our shit fixed not just told to take another pill.
For me personally, acupuncture provides me stress relief, and pain relief. It can loosen tight muscles, relieve pain, and reduce stress. If you’ve ever had E-Stim, then you should try acupuncture with electrical stimulation. They hook the electricity straight to the needle and it creates small contractions at the point where its needed.
Lastly, there is cupping, which to me feels like a deep tissue massage afterwards.
Anyway, for those of you willing to consider it, I would hope you give it a chance.