Acupuncture
Is acupuncture right for you?
A popular treatment, acupuncture can greatly improve your health and well-being. It is a safe and effective method of treatment which encourages the body to promote natural healing and improve functioning. This makes it a safe treatment to attend, even if you aren’t suffering from an ailment. Many people use acupuncture when they have low mood, are suffering with their mental health or are just feeling off–colour, because acupuncture helps them with greater sense of wellbeing, enabling them to cope better.
What is acupuncture?
Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine practice involving the insertion of fine needles into specific points on the body, known as acupoints. These acupoints are believed to correspond to meridians, pathways through which vital energy, or "qi", flows.
Acupuncture aims to balance this energy, alleviate pain, and enhance overall health.
Theoretical Basis of Acupuncture
Qi and Meridians: In traditional Chinese medicine, it is believed that qi flows through pathways called meridians. Disruptions in this flow can lead to illness or pain, and acupuncture aims to restore the normal flow of qi.
Balance of Yin and Yang: The practice also seeks to balance the body's yin and yang, opposing forces that are essential for maintaining health.
Scientific Perspective on Acupuncture
Neurotransmitters: Acupuncture may stimulate the release of neurotransmitters such as endorphins, which can help reduce pain.
Blood Flow: The treatment can enhance local blood flow, promoting healing in the targeted area.
Nerve Stimulation: Inserting needles can stimulate nerves, prompting the brain and spinal cord to release natural painkillers.
Insertion
The acupuncturist inserts the needles into the skin at precise acupoints. The depth of insertion can vary, ranging from a few millimetres to several centimetres, depending on the specific area and desired therapeutic effect.
Manipulation
After insertion, the needles may be gently twirled, moved up and down, this done and monitored by your acupuncturist throughout the treatment to enhance the treatment's effectiveness.
Retention
Typically, the needles are left in place for 15 to 30 minutes while the patient relaxes, allowing the treatment to take full effect. Once completed, the acupuncturist will safely dispose of the needles.
Is Acupuncture painful?
Some patients feel no pain at all, whilst others feel some pain when the needles are inserted. If you’ve not had acupuncture before your only real comparison would be receiving an injection. Acupuncture the needles are very thin and solid with the point of the needle is smooth. Hypodermic needles used for injections and blood sampling are hollow, and they have an increased risk of skin bruising and skin irritation. So, it is likely insertion of acupuncture needles through the skin is not as painful as injections or blood sampling.
Benefits and Applications
Acupuncture is used to treat a wide range of conditions, including chronic pain, headaches, anxiety, insomnia, and digestive issues. It is generally considered safe when performed by a trained practitioner using sterile needles. The holistic approach of acupuncture makes it a popular choice for those seeking alternative and complementary therapies for health and wellness.
By understanding the principles and benefits of acupuncture, you can explore this ancient healing practice as a potential solution for various health concerns.
