Prostatitis and Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome (CPPS) and How Acupuncture Can Help

What is Prostatitis and Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome (CPPS)?

Prostatitis is swelling and irritation (inflammation) of the prostate gland, while chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CPPS) is chronic pain in the pelvic region, often associated with urinary or sexual dysfunction. Prostatitis can be caused by infection or other factors, and CPPS can be a result of various causes, including inflammation of the prostate, pelvic floor muscles, or nerves. 

Key Differences:

• Inflammation: Prostatitis is specifically related to inflammation of the prostate gland. CPPS is a broader term for chronic pelvic pain, which may or may not be due to prostate inflammation. 
• Bacterial infection: Chronic bacterial prostatitis is caused by recurring bacterial infections. CPPS can occur without evidence of bacterial infection. 
• Symptoms:​ Prostatitis can cause urinary problems, pain during urination, and pain with ejaculation. CPPS can cause pelvic pain, urinary problems, and sexual dysfunction. 

How can Acupuncture Help?

Acupuncture may help manage prostatitis and chronic pelvic pain by targeting specific acupoints to modulate the nervous system's pain response, reducing inflammation, and potentially improving immune function.¹ Dr. Zamora specializes in helping patients with chronic health concerns and pain.
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• Pain Relief: Acupuncture stimulates the release of endorphins, which are natural pain-relieving chemicals, potentially reducing chronic pelvic pain associated with prostatitis. 
• Anti-inflammatory Effects: Acupuncture may help reduce inflammation in the prostate by improving blood circulation and reducing pro-inflammatory cytokines.
• Nerve Modulation: Acupuncture may affect the nervous system's response to pain, potentially reducing the overstimulation of local nerve pathways associated with chronic pelvic pain. 
• Immune System Modulation: Some research suggests that acupuncture may play a role in regulating the immune system, which may be dysregulated in chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome. 
• Urinary Function: Acupuncture may help improve urinary symptoms associated with prostatitis. 

¹Qin Z, Guo J, Chen H, Wu J. Acupuncture for Chronic Prostatitis/Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome: A GRADE-assessed Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Eur Urol Open Sci. 2022;46:55-67. Published 2022 Oct 26. doi:10.1016/j.euros.2022.10.005

What to Expect From Your Acupuncture Treatment?

• Improved Quality of Life: Treatment can lead to better quality of life, addressing not just pain but also emotional well-being. 
• Urinary Symptom Improvement: Acupuncture may help improve urinary symptoms, such as difficulty urinating, frequency, and urgency. 
• Minimal Side Effects: Acupuncture is generally considered safe, with minimal side effects like minor bruising or soreness at the needle insertion site. 
• Potential for Long-Term Benefits: Some studies suggest that the improvements achieved through acupuncture can be sustained over time. 
• Individualized Treatment: Acupuncture treatment is typically personalized to address the specific symptoms and needs of the individual. 

What are Patients Saying?

“I highly recommend Dr. Zamora! The entire team is kind, welcoming, helpful and so accommodating. Dr. Zamora is great about asking the right questions and has such a calming presence. I really love that she even uses the red light device in certain areas as well, that is a great touch….” A.P. 03/2025

Contact Us: 

Dr. Zamora has 10 years of experience in acupuncture ​and over 18 years experience in healthcare, serving North Scottsdale and surrounding areas. Call us today at 480-300-5767 or visit www.AZacu.com to schedule your consultation! ​