Acupuncture can help with a wide range of conditions, but the effect of good acupuncture is more than simply curing the symptoms. This system of medicine recognises that many ailments are the product of emotional as much as physical distress. According to traditional Chinese philosophy, our health depends on the state of the body’s vital energy, or Qi. A smooth and balanced flow is associated to a healthy state of the individual, while a disrupted, obstructed or deficient flow manifests in illness.
The theory of Yin Yang balance is a fundamental concept in acupuncture. The insertion of fine needles into specific points along the body’s energy pathways can stimulate the human body’s natural healing response, release pain-killing endorphins and improve functioning of the hormonal system.Modern studies have revealed that acupuncture can raise the level of specific hormones, prostaglandin, T-cell counts, gamma globulin, opsonins, and overall anti-body levels.
What does acupuncture treat?
Chinese Medicine may be generalized or specialized depending on the practitioner. Many ailments can be treated with acupuncture, so it’s possible for me to to say acupuncture treats stress, muscle pain and tension, hot flashes, digestive disorders, insomnia, migraines, allergies, and so on, but the reality is that whatever symptoms you present, acupuncture looks at the big picture. Meaning, you are not a bunch of symptoms, but an entire being presenting a pattern or multiple patterns. Acupuncture works to balance these patterns and in turn help your entire body function optimally. Often Chinese herbal medicine is used in conjunction with acupuncture to speed-up, enhance, or compliment treatments.
Does acupuncture hurt?
The needles used for acupuncture are hair-like in diameter and solid, not hollow like a hypodermic, so they do not cut. There is typically a light pricking sensation and then other sensations occur such as heaviness, tingling, warmth, movement, pulling, a slight dull ache, numbness, or a spreading sensation. The sensations stop once the needles are removed. Following treatment it is common for patients to feel relaxed.
How can I best be prepared for my acupuncture treatment?
Eat before treatment and wear comfortable, loose clothing. Eating keeps you from feeling light-headed or weak after treatment. For full benefit, refrain from rigorous exercise two hours before or after treatment.