Acupuncture

Thought to have originated on China, Acupuncture is a technique of inserting extremely thin needles (thread-like) into the body on specific energy points to rebalance the flow of chi (life-force) and thus restore well-being and eliminate pain and suffering.

When administered by well-trained professionals, acupuncture can be a highly effective means of dealing with physical problems as well as tension, stress and emotional conditions.

¹The World Health organization recognizes the use of acupuncture in the treatment of a wide range of medical problems, including:

• Addictions: to food, alcohol, chemicals, nicotine, emotion
• Digestive disorders: gastritis and hyperacidity, spastic colon, constipation, diarrhea
•  Respiratory disorders: sinusitis, sore throat, bronchitis, asthma, recurrent chest infections
• Neurological and muscular disorders: headaches, facial tics, neck pain, rib neuritis, frozen shoulder, tennis elbow, various forms of tendinitis, low back pain, sciatica, osteoarthritis
• Urinary, menstrual, and reproductive problems
• Hormonal imbalances leading to various complaints including weight problems, menstrual and menopausal issues

HOW DOES ACUPUNCTURE WORK?

The classical Chinese explanation is that channels of energy run in regular patterns through the body and over its surface. These energy channels, called meridians, are like rivers flowing through the body to irrigate and nourish the tissues. An obstruction in the movement of these energy rivers is like a dam that backs up in others.

The meridians can be influenced by needling the acupuncture points; the acupuncture needles unblock the obstructions at the dams, and reestablish the regular flow through the meridians. Acupuncture treatments can therefore help the body's internal organs to correct imbalances in their digestion, absorption, and energy production activities, and in the circulation of their energy through the meridians.

The modern scientific explanation is that needling the acupuncture points stimulates the nervous system to release chemicals in the muscles, spinal cord, and brain. These chemicals will either change the experience of pain, or they will trigger the release of other chemicals and hormones which influence the body's own internal regulating system. The improved energy and biochemical balance produced by acupuncture results in stimulating the body's natural healing abilities, and in promoting physical and emotional well-being.

WHAT IS MEDICAL ACUPUNCTURE?

Acupuncture is a very old medical art, and there are many approaches to learning and practicing it. Medical acupuncture is the term used to describe acupuncture performed by a doctor trained and licensed in Western medicine that has also had thorough training in acupuncture as a specialty practice. Such a doctor can use one or the other approach, or a combination of both as the need arises, to treat an illness.

¹ Copyright © 1997-2006 American Academy of Medical Acupuncture