Acupuncture 

Acupuncture 

Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine treatment that involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to promote energy flow, balance the body's vital energy (Qi), and encourage the body's natural healing processes. It is often used to relieve various types of pain, such as back pain and headaches, and to manage symptoms and side effects from other conditions or treatments. The procedure uses sterile, disposable needles at acu-points to stimulate nerves, muscles, and connective tissues, which can trigger the release of natural painkillers and hormones.
 

How it Works

• Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) View:

  In TCM, acupuncture is believed to balance the flow of vital energy (Qi) through channels called meridians. By stimulating acu-points, blockages or imbalances in Qi are cleared, restoring the body's interconnectedness and promoting overall wellness. 

• Western Medical View:

  Modern practitioners view acupuncture points as sites for stimulating the nervous, endocrine, immune, and cardiovascular systems. The stimulation of nerves and tissues can trigger the release of pain-relieving chemicals and hormones, influencing the body's natural regulating system. 

Common Uses

Acupuncture is commonly used to address a range of conditions, including:

• Pain Relief: Low back pain, neck pain, osteoarthritis, headaches (including migraines), and dental pain. 

• Nausea and Vomiting: Particularly those caused by chemotherapy and surgery. 

• Other Conditions: Chronic fatigue, menstrual cramps, fibromyalgia, and symptoms related to respiratory, digestive, and neurological issues. 

Safety and What to Expect

• Safety:

  Acupuncture is generally safe when performed by a certified and licensed acupuncturist. Using sterile, disposable needles is standard practice. 

• The Treatment:

  A session typically lasts about 30 minutes. The acupuncturist will assess your condition and insert ultra-fine, sterile needles at specific points. You may feel the insertion, and then a deep, aching sensation or a tugging feeling. The needles are often left in place for about 20 minutes. 

Important Considerations

• Licensing:

  Look for an acupuncturist licensed by a provincial regulatory board, which ensures a certain level of training and adherence to practice guidelines. 

• Medical Conditions:

  Inform your practitioner about any bleeding disorders, medications (especially anticoagulants), metal allergies, or if you are pregnant, as certain acupuncture points are not recommended during pregnancy. 

• Acupuncture - Mayo Clinic

  Apr 20, 2024 — Traditional Chinese medicine explains acupuncture as a technique for balancing the flow of energy or life force — know...

  Mayo Clinic

• Acupuncture - Wikipedia

  Insertion. The skin is sterilized and needles are inserted, frequently with a plastic guide tube. Needles may be manipulated in va...

  Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

• Acupuncture - StatPearls - NCBI Bookshelf

  Acupuncture is a system of medical treatment and ideology based on the principle of applying small needles or pressure to specific...

  NCBI