Acupuncture
What is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is a safe and effective treatment used in traditional Chinese medicine when practiced by a qualified Chinese medicine practitioner and acupuncturist. Research on acupuncture has grown significantly in the last twenty years, supporting the efficiency of acupuncture for a variety of conditions. The World Health Organization (WHO) recognizes the effectiveness of acupuncture for various conditions and recommends it as primary or complementary therapy worldwide.
How does Acupuncture work?
Acupuncture is a traditional healing practice that originated in ancient China over 2,000 years ago. It is a key component of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and involves the insertion of fine needles into specific points on the body known as acupuncture points. These points are located along channels or meridians through which the vital energy, known as Qi, is believed to flow.
The fundamental principle of acupuncture is to restore the balance of Qi, which, when disrupted or blocked, is believed to cause various health problems. Acupuncture needles are inserted at precise points to stimulate the flow of Qi, promoting balance and allowing the body to heal itself.
From a Western perspective, acupuncture is understood to influence the nervous system. Needle insertion triggers the release of endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers, and affects neurotransmitter levels. Additionally, acupuncture has effects on blood circulation and can modulate inflammatory responses.
Acupuncture is a versatile therapy that addresses a wide range of conditions, both physical and emotional. It is often used for pain management, stress reduction, and various health issues, including digestive disorders, respiratory conditions, and women’s health problems.
What can Acupuncture be used to treat?
Some areas where acupuncture has commonly been applied:
- Chronic pain conditions, including back pain, neck pain, and osteoarthritis.
- Migraines and tension headaches.
- Dental pain.
- Sciatica.
- Tennis elbow.
- Joint pain.
- Menstrual irregularities.
- Menopausal symptoms.
- Fertility support.
- Asthma.
- Allergies.
- Sinusitis.
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS).
- Indigestion.
- Nausea and vomiting.
- Bell’s palsy.
- Stroke rehabilitation.
- Peripheral neuropathy.
- Stress and anxiety.
- Depression.
- Insomnia.
- Recurrent infections.
- Allergic rhinitis.
- Acne.
- Eczema.
- Psoriasis.
- Smoking cessation.
- Substance abuse.
- Hypertension (high blood pressure).