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 types of acupuncture do I use?
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Acupuncture is a holistic healing practice that involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to balance the flow of Qi (energy). Rooted in ancient Chinese philosophy, it aims to restore harmony between the body’s energy and the natural world, promoting physical and emotional health.
Five Elements Acupuncture is a specialized form of TCM acupuncture that focuses on the interplay between five elements: Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Water. Each element corresponds to different organs and emotions, and balancing these elements helps address the root cause of health issues.
Scalp Acupuncture (YNSA), developed by Dr. Toshikatsu Yamamoto, is a modern variant focusing on points located on the scalp. It combines Traditional Chinese Medicine with contemporary medical knowledge, making it highly effective for treating neurological and musculoskeletal disorders.
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).