About Acupuncture
What is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is a method of encouraging the body to promote its own natural healing ability. It is not a mystical theory of ancient Chinese, but a type of bioenergetics medicine which has been practiced and developed in Chinese medicine for more than 5000 years. Over this vast length of time, billions of people have been treated successfully.
Chi (pronounced “chee”) is an energy referred to as the ‘life force’ or ‘vital force’ which is present in all living creatures. Chi circulates through 14 major meridians, or energy channels, to all parts of the body. If the flow of Chi is impeded for any reason – by blockage, imbalance, or misdirection – the body’s health weakens in response to the shortage of vital energy.
By restoring the flow of Chi energy, the body can repair itself. To do this, the doctor will stimulate specific points along the meridians, called acupoints, with hair-fine acupuncture needles. This stimulation helps re-balance and encourage the stronger flow of Chi, which is necessary for the body to repair itself and also for the body to maintain itself.
About Meridians
To circulate throughout the body, Chi passes through and along energy channels, termed meridians. There are 14 major meridians, six on the right side of the body and six on the left, and one each in center front and center back. And there are numerous minor meridians which are also essential for the positive flow of Chi. Over the centuries, Chinese doctors have mapped the meridians and hundreds of specific acupoints within the meridians, where stimulation produces improved Chi flow. Optimum health is maintained when Chi flows freely through the meridians.
About Acupoints
Acupoints on the skin’s surface are the pathways to the meridians carrying Chi flow. During acupuncture, the doctor will stimulate (by needles or other means) a specific mix of acupoints to help restore the body’s balance. The stimulation helps to regulate Chi flow and to remove Chi blockages found during the patient’s examination. Acupoints also serve as pathways for the body to absorb natural environmental energy for its well being.
About the Needles
Acupuncture needles are not like the hypodermic needles that are used to give shots and injections. Acupuncture needles are very slender and flexible, as fine as a hair or fine fiber thread, and they do not force liquid into the skin. Some people may experience a little tingling, but new patients usually are surprised at how comfortable, pleasant, and relaxing acupuncture treatment is. Acupuncture needles are sterile disposable needles that are shipped in individually sealed packages and are used only once.
Treatment Choices without Needles
Acupoints can be stimulated by many means other than needles. Some of the other options are acupressure (where finger or mechanical pressure is applied on the acupoint), laser stimulation, heat or cold stimulation.
What Can Be Treated by Acupuncture?
Acupuncture can show positive treatment results for these conditions and symptoms, and more: Addictions |
