Pins and needles to cure your pain and prickles? Let’s break down this traditional Chinese practice!
What is acupuncture?
Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine technique that involves inserting thin needles through the skin at strategic points on the body. Treatment for pain is its most common use, while stress management and overall wellness have been recent developments in its usage. Traditional Chinese medicine aims to balance the flow of energy, known as chi or qi, through pathways in the body. Western practitioners view acupuncture points as stimulating nerves, muscles, and connective tissue, potentially boosting the body’s natural painkillers.
Where did it come from?
Acupuncture is part of the ancient practice of Traditional Chinese medicine, which believes the human body has over 2,000 acupuncture points connected by pathways or meridians. Diseases can result from an interruption in the energy flow, and this treatment enhances the Qi’s flow, hence enhancing health.
Where is it used?
Acupuncture is a complementary therapy often used to relieve discomfort from various diseases and conditions. These diseases include chemotherapy-induced nausea, dental pain, fibromyalgia, headaches, labor pain, lower back pain, neck pain, osteoarthritis, menstrual cramps, respiratory disorders, and tendinopathy.
The National Institute of Health (NIH)
Studies by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) show that acupuncture is effective in treating various conditions, including nausea, dental pain, addiction, headaches, menstrual cramps, tendinopathy, lower back pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, asthma, and stroke rehabilitation. Acupuncture is flexible and can target multiple health concerns simultaneously.
A typical session
In a typical setting, the acupuncture process uses anywhere from six to more than 20 tiny needles per treatment depending on the client’s condition, note that the number of needles does not signify the intensity of the treatment. The needles are left inserted for about 10 to 20 minutes and maybe lightly twisted for an added effect. The duration of a session generally varies. However, a typical session lasts for about 20 to 30 minutes.
Other treatments
Depending on what you are getting treatment for, a session may include other treatment/s such as:
- Moxibustion – This process is also called “moxa” and involves the usage of heated sticks which are made from dried herbs. They are held close to the inserted acupuncture needles to warm and stimulate the acupuncture points.
- Cupping – This process involves applying glass or silicone cups to the skin to create a suction effect. Cupping relieves the stagnation of energy flow and blood. Similar cupping practices called Hijama are done in the Middle East and India using plastic cupping sets, or even glass cupping sets.
- Herbs – During the session, Chinese herbs may be given to the patient as teas, pills, and capsules.
- Electroacupuncture – In this method, an electrical device is connected to two or four acupuncture needles in order to provide a weak electrical current. This in turn stimulates the needles during the treatment.
- Laser Acupuncture – The method stimulates the acupuncture points without the usage of any needles.
- Ear Acupuncture – The process is also called auricular acupuncture and is sometimes used during the treatment for weight loss, smoking cessation, addictions, and anxiety.
Risks
Acupuncture is a safe and effective treatment option for various conditions, but it is essential to consider factors such as bleeding disorders, pacemaker operations, and pregnancy before undergoing treatment. It is crucial to discuss your medical history, including any medications, dietary supplements, and other treatments you’ve undergone or will undergo. Consider costs and insurance coverage before starting treatment. Acupuncture is a complementary therapy and should not replace doctor-recommended treatments. The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) advises against using acupuncture as a replacement for conventional medical help.
Our Take
The resultant feeling after a session includes heavy sensations such as tingling, numbness, and various aches, which helps achieve the therapeutic effect.
We too provide Acupuncture Needles in various sizes. The range that we have, allows for medical practitioners to come to us and choose what they need. Our Needles come individually packed with a guide tube which allows for more accurate insertion. Check them out here.
Disclaimer
GulfPhysio.com and all of its content are for informational purposes only. All information is believed to be accurate at the time of posting and should NOT be construed as professional medical advice. Please seek a medical professional in the event of pain or injury.
