Before-surgery therapy reduces need for painkillers

Acupuncture is often used to treat existing pain. Now, a new study suggests having the alternative therapy before surgery can prevent discomfort and anxiety afterward. Research presented to the Anesthesiology 2020 annual meeting found that hip surgery patients who received acupuncture prior to the procedure reported less pain and anxiety after, plus required three times fewer prescription painkillers than those in the control group. The scientists say acupuncture releases endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers.