Acupuncture 2A Primer on Medical
Acupuncture
Have you ever had an uncontrollable urge to be pierced by a dozen
needles? This is the image most people get when someone mentions the
word “acupuncture”. It comes as no surprise that most view this
technique with suspicion, even downright horror. The fact is, however,
that this relatively painless ancient Chinese technique has helped
relieve the symptoms of millions of people. Properly used, it can help
in the management of many medical conditions including chronic pain and
fatigue.
How does needle puncture work?
Practitioners of Chinese traditional medicine believe in energy flows.
This energy, called Qi, circulates around the body using pathways called
meridians. Meridians run very close to the surface of the skin in
certain areas and can be accessed by needles. Much like plumbing, these
pipes can get blocked or go the wrong way, causing health problems. The
insertion of needles at these points is aimed to help loosen blocks and
normalize flow.
It sounds like a made-up explanation with no basis in reality, but there
are numerous scientific studies which support the effects of
acupuncture. Although the exact scientific basis is still unknown,
recent theories seem to suggest involvement of complicated neuro-chemical
effects in the brain, nerve to spinal cord impulse modulation, and
microscopic connective tissue changes.
What risks and side effects are of concern?
The use of things not completely understood for the treatment of medical
conditions is nothing new. Penicillin and aspirin were used for decades
solely on the basis of their beneficial effects, without doctors knowing
exactly how they worked. Results are what are truly important. However,
it is equally important is to ensure that the technique is used safely.
Like other strategies used in treating health conditions, acupuncture
may have some side effects. Medications have side effects and allergic
reactions, surgeries have risk of infection and complications. For
needle puncture, there is a risk of injury, rare infections, minor
bleeding, small bruises, and some dizziness.
You can minimize the possible side effects by choosing a licensed
acupuncturist. Most countries either have government licensing in place
or have professional organizations with very strict rules and
regulations.
How do treatments go?
An acupuncturist will do an initial evaluation of your medical history
and your body’s current state. Multiple pressure points are palpated,
and a regimen of treatment is formulated. Most courses involve a series
of 10 to 20 treatment sessions, each lasting 30 to 90 minutes. Needles
will be carefully placed at the required points and kept in place for
some time. Most patients report a feeling of mild sensation at the site
of the puncture, but no real pain.
Right after each acupuncture session, you will feel a bit tired and may
need to rest. Some people feel an increase in their energy levels. The
response to acupuncture is very individual. In some cases there is
immediate relief of symptoms. For some patients, the beneficial effects
may only be noticed after undergoing a few sessions. Do not be alarmed
and keep your acupuncturist updated on what you are feeling to ensure
everything is going as expected.
You need never fear the thought of needles ever again. Acupuncture is a
beneficial treatment with a long history of effectiveness. It is used to
complement current medical therapy and should not replace currently
existing medications or treatments.
The safe application of this once exclusively Chinese therapy can now be
experienced by chronic disease sufferers worldwide.
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2011
Derek Barrington Essex
UK
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