Acupuncture is a time honored Eastern way of treating ailments and promoting well-being. It originated in China 2,000 years ago and is now recognized in the west as an alternative way of treating different ailments.
How does it work?
Acupuncture involves piercing small, very fine needles into specific areas or acupuncture points along the body’s meridians (small channels) to encourage a person’s qi (life energy)to flow smoothly and to clear energy blockages. The pressure applied on these points is believed to help alleviate and treat certain ailments.
Benefits of Acupuncture
Since acupuncture is a way of healing naturally, it’s believed to have the following benefits –
- Relieves pain without the use of drugs
- Treats the symptoms as well as the underlying cause of the disease
- Aids in disease prevention and maintains a body’s general well-being
- takes a holistic approach to healing the body, mind and emotions
Ailments or Disorders Treated with Acupuncture
Acupuncture is now thought of as another form of treatment and can be used alone or in conjunction with other conventional medical treatments. However, one should always discuss with their primary care provider if acupuncture is the best treatment for one’s condition.
Some ailments or conditions that can be treated with acupuncture are –
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Addictions and Psychological conditions
Alcohol, drugs and nicotine addictions and psychological conditions like anxiety, depression and phobias can also be treated with acupuncture. There are acupuncturists who believe that addiction-causing cravings can be overcome or controlled by the application of pressure on certain points of the body.
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Chronic Fatigue
Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) causes crippling exhaustion, reduced stamina and other flu-like symptoms. Traditional Chinese doctors believe that fatigue comes from weakened internal organs. Acupuncture helps to restore and stimulate the affected organs.
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Recurring and Acute Pain
Acupuncture helps relieve acute, recurring pain associated with conditions like arthritis or fibromyalgia. Studies have also shown that acupuncture is also a very effective treatment for lower back pain. It can also reduce the frequency and severity of migraines, tension headaches and neck pain.
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Digestive System Disorders
Acupuncture is also known to be helpful in relieving digestive system disorders such as colitis, constipation, diarrhea, flatulence, food allergies, gastric and duodenal ulcers, heartburn, hemorrhoids, hiccups and hyperacidity.
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Female Reproductive Health Issues
Acupuncture can also help boost fertility, relieve PMS and alleviate symptoms of menopause like hot flashes and mood swings
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Side Effects of Chemotherapy
Known side effects of chemotherapy like nausea and pain can be eased by acupuncture. It can also help build up immunity and energy levels.
Acupuncturists believe that some of these conditions are caused by a disturbance in the body’s qi and treating it is through regulating the body’s energy through the pressure points. How long these treatment sessions last depends on the condition and how often one goes to an acupuncturist. It can be as short as a week or it can take years.
It’s crucial that whatever ailment you want to be treated for, whether it’s for low back pain, migraine or PMS, make sure that your acupuncturist is highly trained and licensed. While the treatment looks safe, it can cause further distress or damage if done incorrectly.
