Wednesday 17 July 2013

Ask: What Is Acupuncture And Can It Help Me?

By Jason Miller


For those who wonder, 'What is acupuncture?', we can check ancient history and the present-day local directories. This Chinese healing art is based on the theory that there is an energy flow in every living thing that nourishes the entire being. If the free flow of this vital force is blocked or retarded, illness and pain can be the result. By keeping the pathways ('meridians') open, health can be restored and pain alleviated.

Acupressure is an even older method of healing that operates on the same theory of energy flow; it involves finger and hand pressure on specific points of the body. Instead of finger pressure, acupuncturists use needles to stimulate the 'pressure points', in order to release blockages in the energy flow. There are many of these pressure points and many meridians. The Chinese believe that the meridians should be carefully protected. For example, one meridian includes the ear lobe, so piercing the lobe is considered unwise.

Think of the chi as circulation and the blockages in the flow as 'kinks', and you will get the picture, even if it is vastly over-simplified. Although the West did not embrace this healing methodology early on, many are now enthusiastic over the possibilities for health and well-being. Clinics use this especially for chronic back pain that might not benefit from surgery, and for migraine headache relief.

It is a common practice to find an acupuncturist on staff at medical clinics, and massage therapists who practice 'shiatsu', another method based on the theories of acupressure. Doctors have found that some ailments can be treated with these safe and non-invasive practices, rather than pharmaceutical drugs that may have undesirable side effects. Even surgery can be avoided, if the patient responds favorable to any of these other healing arts.

There are no known side effects to this treatment, which is virtually painless. The practitioner inserts thin needles into various points on the body; there may be a slight sensation upon insertion but no discomfort during the period that the needles remain in place. A series of treatments is often prescribed, but relief of pain may be achieved during the initial session.

It is thought to be the stimulation of nerve endings and neurotransmitters that helps the body block pain and promote healing. Modern research and clinical tests validate the claims of effective relief of pain, stress-related problems like insomnia and anxiety, and restoration of health. The body can heal itself if its innate systems can function properly.

The release of endorphins probably also plays a part in restoring health. These 'feel-good' hormones fight pain and stress-related problems, like sleep disorders and stress headaches. Many experience a lift in mood during a session with the acupuncturist, who may be focusing on another health issue.

If you have been wondering 'what is acupuncture?', you can check online for more information. There is an American Association of Oriental Medicine website that can answer your questions. Completely safe and non-invasive, this healing art can bring rapid and long-lasting relief.




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