Probably the most used alternative treatment in the world is
Acupunture. It is certainly painful but no medicines and hence harmful side
effects. Acupuncture is one of several popular alternative therapies tracing
its roots to traditional medicine in China more than 5,000 years ago. Although
the treatment is regarded as one of the most common and oldest worldwide,
acupuncture only started to become recognized in the US after New York Times
journalist James Reston wrote a feature on how his post-surgery pain was eased
by doctors in China in 1971 using the procedure.
Acupuncture (don’t put 2 Cs in it) has always delivered the
desired results and hence its popularity. However, have you read anywhere as to
why it has worked? Rather, What Happens During Acupuncture
Treatment?
Here are some interesting facts about the basis of
Acupuncture.
The treatment assumes something called qi (pronounced key) -
energy in living beings that passes through twelve meridians or invisible
energy lines in the body. Each line links to a specific organ system; the
belief is that any imbalance in qi flow leads to a disease. The key component
of acupuncture treatment is the insertion of needles into key points on the
meridian lines to renew balance. These extremely thin, metallic needles are
aimed at specific anatomical points and controlled manually or by electrical
stimulation. An individual usually feels relaxed and energized after
acupuncture.
Acupuncture is endorsed by the National Institute of Health
It is practiced by dentists, doctors and other health
practitioners
How Does It Really
Work?
Acupuncture reportedly induces the release of endorphins in
the body, relieving an indivudal from pain. Other effects attributed to the
therapy include influence over neurotransmitters, or substances transporting
nerve impulses; promotion of circulation; and effects over the body's
electrical currents and autonomic nervous system. Many common ailments and
undesirable conditions are addressed by acupuncture treatment.
Commonly Treated Conditions
- Sinusitis
- The common cold
- Smoking and other addictions
- Migraines
- Tennis elbow
- Infertility
- Menstrual cramps
- Obesity
- Low-back pain
- Asthma
- Arthritis
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
Procedure
On the first meeting, acupuncturists usually ask new clients
to fill up a personal health record prior to an interview. A session then has
the client answer questions that cover main health issues, diet, emotional and
psychological profile, and overall lifestyle and regular activities. The
therapist should also be informed by the individual of any current medication and
treatment being taken. During this interview, one can also expect the
practitioner to evaluate pulse points and establish how healthy the
individual's twelve meridians are. A diagnosis is then given, followed by the
use of between 6 and 12 needles as treatment is commenced. Patients keen on
acupuncture must realize that the exact placement on target points on the
meridians is more important, not the number of needles used.
The initial insertion may make the patient feel pricked or
stung. However, the treatment should be painless and comfortable for the
duration that could extend to an hour or more. An individual should immediately
tell the acupuncturist to discontinue if he feels any numbness, discomfort or
pain. Variations of the treatment may involve use of herbal medicine -
capsules, tablets or tea made from Chinese herbs to boost the therapy. Some
practitioners also integrate cupping - a suction effect created with the use of
glass cups on the skin, in part to promote blood circulation and continuous qi
flow.
Rising Popularity
The recent withdrawal of the Vioxx painkiller has raised
apprehension over pain relievers available in the market. This concern,
combined with statements from the NIH and other government and health
organizations that side effects from acupuncture are significantly lower, has
made more individuals turn to the treatment, particularly for pain relief.
Several studies have also shown how acupuncture has helped patients with
osteoarthritis, post-chemotherapy nausea and even depression. Despite all the
apparent positive feedback, those considering acupuncture should still consult
regular doctors and health-care professionals for advice on their conditions
first. If they decide to pursue the treatment, they must make sure that the
acupuncturist or practitioner they see is highly-qualified and certified by
organizations such as the American Academy of Medical Acupuncturists.
