Acupuncture is the insertion of very fine, sterile needles into specific points in the body to promote healing, increase circulation and restore the body to balance. Points are chosen depending on the symptoms and diagnosis after a thorough history taking and determination by the acupuncturist. Acupuncture is the key component in Traditional Chinese Medicine.
The traditional Chinese explanation for acupuncture is that there are channels of energy (or Qi) that run through the body. These channels, or meridians, flow through the body to help irrigate and nourish the tissues. When there is an obstruction or if the Qi’s movement is hindered, then the body’s energy and healing abilities are also hindered. The needles are placed along these meridians to “unblock” or stimulate points of blockages and allow the free-flow of Qi and blood and reestablish the regular flow through the meridians.
The modern scientific explanation for acupuncture is that the needles stimulate nervous system, stimulating and releasing hormones that help to trigger an immune response. Acupuncture can help to increase circulation, decrease inflammation and promote your own body’s immune response.
Acupuncture, along with other modalities such as cupping, herbal therapy and moxibustion, can help to treat the signs and symptoms of many disorders.
Does Acupuncture really work?
Yes. It has shown great efficacy and successful treatment for more than 2,000 years, treating people even before modern medical technology. Now, when combined with today’s conventional Western medicine, its effectiveness has been proven time and time again. Sometimes, even where Western medicine has failed, Acupuncture can be the only treatment that provides relief. Obviously, some diseases and disorders are more easily and better treated with Western medicine and should be treated this way. And any Acupuncturist who completely rejects Western medicine and claims to “cure” any and all diseases, should be avoided. A good Acupuncturist will work in conjunction with any Western medical treatments and even refer the patient to go see a medical doctor if any red flags are raised.