A Primer On Medical Acupunture

Have you ever in your life had an uncontrollable urge to be pierced by a dozen needles? This is the idea most people have when someone mentions the word “acupuncture”. It comes as no surprise that most people view this technique with suspicion, even downright horror. The truth is that this is relatively a painless ancient Chinese technique that has helped relieve the symptoms of millions of people. Properly used, it can help in the management of several medical conditions including chronic pain and fatigue.


How does a needle puncture work?

Experts of Chinese traditional medicine believe in energy flows. This believed energy, called Qi, circulates around the body using pathways called meridians. Meridians run very close to the surface of the human skin in certain areas and can be accessed by needles. Just like plumbing, these pipes can get blocked or go the wrong way, causing health problems. The insertion of needles at these points is targeted to help loosen blocks and normalize flow.

It sounds like a cook-up explanation with no basis in reality, but there are numerous scientific studies that support the effects of acupuncture. Although the exact scientific basis is still unknown, recent theories seem to suggest the involvement of complicated neurochemical effects in the brain, nerve to spinal cord impulse modulation, and microscopic connective tissue changes in the body.

What are the risks and side effects of concern?

The use of things that are 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 on the body, without doctors knowing exactly how they worked. Results are what is truly important. However, it is equally important to make sure that the technique is used safely.

Like other methods used in treating health conditions, acupuncture may have some side effects. Medications sometimes have side effects and allergic reactions, and surgeries have the risk of infection and complications. For needle puncture, there is a risk of injury, minor bleeding, rare infections small, bruises, and some dizziness.

You can reduce the possible side effects by choosing a licensed acupuncturist. The majority of countries either have government licensing in place or have professional organizations with very strict rules and regulations.

Steps for the treatments?

An acupuncturist will do an early evaluation of your medical history and your body’s current state. Several pressure points are palpated, and a regimen of treatment is formulated. Most courses involve a series of 10 to 20 treatment sessions, of which each lasts 30 to 90 minutes. Needles will be professionally placed at the required points and kept in place for some time. A great number of patients reportedly have a feeling of mild sensation at the site of the puncture, but no real pain.

After each acupuncture session, you might feel a bit tired and will need to rest. Some people feel an increase in their energy levels. The response to acupuncture is very individual based. On some occasions, there is immediate relief of symptoms. For some patients, the positive effects may only be noticed after undergoing a few sessions. Do not be alarmed and keep your acupuncturist updated on what you are feeling at every point to ensure everything is going as expected.

You don't need to ever fear the thought of needles ever again. Acupuncture is a benefitable treatment with a long history of effectiveness. It is used to complement current medical therapies and should not replace any current existing medications or treatments.

The safe application of this once exclusively Chinese therapy can now be experienced by chronic disease sufferers all over the world.