These pathways promote overall health by allowing energy (Qi, pronounced “chee”) to flow freely throughout the body. An infection may result from a disruption in the energy flow. By applying pressure to certain places, acupuncture is said to increase Qi flow and, as a result, wellness. Studies have shown that acupuncture is effective in the management of a number of disorders.
Not everyone should utilise acupuncture. Consult your physician before scheduling an appointment with an acupuncturist, and then seek for someone who is certified and has the required education and experience.
The Process of Acupuncture
In order to promote the movement of the body’s life force, or “chi,” acupuncture stimulates sites along 14 energy pathways. According to some research, the needles stimulate blood flow, alter brain activity, and trigger the body to create endorphins, which are natural painkillers.
The placebo effect, a phenomenon known as acupuncture’s working only because patients believe it will, according to sceptics.
Acupuncture points are meant to stimulate the central nervous system. As a result, chemicals are released into the brain, spinal cord, and muscles. By improving the body’s innate healing abilities, these molecular modifications may enhance physical and mental health.
The National Institutes of Health’s (NIH) study has shown that acupuncture is a successful treatment for the following conditions:
Both surgical anesthesias and cancer treatments cause nausea.
oral soreness following surgery
Addiction
Headaches
During menstruation, cramps
When a person develops tennis elbow, it
Fibromyalgia
Pain that affects the muscles and connective tissues is known as myofascial pain.
Osteoarthritis
lower back discomfort
A disorder known as carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) affects (CTS)
Asthma
Additionally, it could promote stroke recovery.
Acupuncture’s Advantages
People with a variety of conditions can benefit from acupuncture, a popular supplementary therapy.
The following are just a few advantages of acupuncture:
Combining acupuncture with other therapies is a viable option for therapy.
Chronic pain treatment may benefit from acupuncture.
a trustworthy source
Two of the most common migraine symptoms are headaches and migraines.
Acupuncture seldom has any unfavourable side effects.
It is a versatile therapy that may simultaneously address a variety of health issues.
Is getting acupuncture painful?
Needles used in acupuncture are as thin as human hair. When the needle is put, the majority of patients simply feel a little discomfort. The pressure or painful spot is where the needle is implanted. The needles may be heated or subjected to a small amount of electric current during the therapy. Patients who have acupuncture are believed to feel revitalised afterward. Others claim to be comfortable.
During treatment, pain from improper needle placement is possible. To prevent infection, needles must be sterilised. That is why it is crucial to get treatment from a qualified acupuncturist. Acupuncture needles are subject to FDA regulation in the same way as other medical devices are, including good manufacturing practises and single-use sterility requirements.
Other forms of stimulation, such as: are occasionally used to the acupuncture sites in place of the use of needles.
The heat output (moxibustion)
enormous pressure (acupressure)
Friction
vacuum hose (cupping)
electromagnetic energy impulses
When it comes to acupuncture, there are a few things to keep in mind.
Since scientific studies have not yet sufficiently outlined how acupuncture functions in the context of Western medicine, the practise is still debatable. When thinking about getting acupuncture, extreme care is needed.
Only use acupuncture after speaking with your doctor. Not everyone should utilise acupuncture. Discuss all of your current therapies and drugs with your physician (dietary supplements, prescription, and over-the-counter). Inform your doctor if you have a pacemaker, are at risk of infection, have persistent skin issues, are pregnant, or have breast implants or any other implants. If you don’t address these concerns, acupuncture may be harmful to your health.
Do not rely on an acupuncturist to diagnose your condition. You should check to see whether acupuncture can assist if your doctor has given you a diagnosis.
The best choice is to see a licenced acupuncturist. You could be referred to a competent or licenced practitioner by your doctor. It is also possible to obtain recommendations from friends and family. You do not need to be a medical professional to practise acupuncture or earn your certification.
Although not all jurisdictions need acupuncturists to receive a licence before practising, around 30 states have set acupuncture training qualifications. The American Academy of Medical Acupuncture can give a list of physicians who practise acupuncture even though not all licenced acupuncturists are medical professionals.
Costs and insurance protection should also be considered. Before beginning treatment, ask the acupuncturist how many treatments will be required and how much they would cost. Acupuncture is covered by certain insurance providers, but not all. Before beginning treatment, it’s critical to ascertain whether acupuncture is covered by your insurance.
