Physiological and Psychological Symptoms of the Fight-or-Flight Response
Symptoms of the Fight-or-Flight Response
The fight-or-flight response is a complex physiological reaction that occurs in response to a perceived threat or acute stressor. This adaptive mechanism, rooted in the sympathetic branch of the autonomic nervous system (ANS) and the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis, prepares the body to either confront (“fight”) or evade (“flight”) danger. While this response evolved to enhance survival in life-threatening situations, in modern life, psychosocial stressors (for example, deadlines, interpersonal conflict, and financial worries) may trigger a similar reaction without an imminent physical threat. Recognizing the underlying physiology and common symptoms of the fight-or-flight response is essential for understanding both its protective and sometimes maladaptive roles in human health.
How Acupuncture Heals a Nervous System Stuck in Fight or Flight
In our modern world, chronic stress has become an epidemic. Many people find themselves trapped in a perpetual state of "fight or flight," where their nervous system remains on high alert even when there's no immediate danger. This constant activation of the sympathetic nervous system can lead to anxiety, insomnia, digestive issues, chronic pain, and a host of other health problems. But what if there was a time-tested solution that could help rewire your nervous system and build lasting resilience? Enter acupuncture—an ancient healing modality that modern science is increasingly validating for its profound effects on stress reduction and nervous system regulation.
Does Acupuncture Help with Pain?
Pain is one of the most common reasons people seek medical care—and increasingly, it’s also why they turn to acupuncture. This ancient healing practice, rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), has gained mainstream acceptance as a safe, effective, and drug-free method for managing both chronic and acute pain.
Acupuncture for Pain
Acupuncture treats all types of pain. The insights of an acupuncturist who has treated pain. How many acupuncture sessions to get rid of pain conditions. Painful shoulder, neck, back, knees, feet and ankles. Acupuncturist in West LA that treats pain.

