|
Today in most western cultures it is considered a “new alternative” medicine. In reality Acupuncture (and its related Moxibustion) are practiced medical treatments that are over 5,0000 years old. Very basically, Acupuncture is the insertion of very fine needles on the body’s surface, in order to influence physiogical functioning of the body.
Acupuncture can also be used in conjunction with heat produced by burning specific herbs, this is called Moxibustion. In addition, a noninvasive method of massage therapy, called Acupressure, can also be effective.
The record of Acupuncture is found in the 4,700 year old Huang Di Nei Jing (Yellow Emperor’s Classic of Internal Medicine). This is said to be the oldest medical textbook in the world. It is said to have been written down from even earlier theories by Shen Nung documented theories about circulation, pulse, and the heart over 4,000 years before European medicine had any concept about them.
As the basis of Acupuncture, Shen Nung theorized that the body had an energy force running throughout it. This energy force is known as Qi (roughly pronounced Chee). The Qi consists of all essential life activities which include the spiritual, emotional, mental and the physical aspects of life. A person’s health is influenced by the flow of Qi in the body, in combination with the universal forces of Yin and Yang. If the flow of Qi is sufficient, unbalanced or interrupted, Yin and Yang become unbalanced, and illness may occur. Qi travels throughout the body along “ Meridians” or special pathways. The acupuncture points are specific locations where the Meridians come to the surface of the skin, and are easily accessible by “ needling”, Moxibustion, and Acupressure.
Energy constantly flows up and down these pathways. When pathways become obstructed, deficient, excessive, or just unbalanced, Yin and Yang are said to be thrown out of balance. This causes illness. Acupuncture is said to restore the balance.
Acupuncturists can use as many as nine types of Acupuncture needles, though only six are commonly used today. These needles vary in length, width of shaft, and shape of head. Today needles are by law disposable. They are used once and discarded in accordance with biohazard regulations and guidelines. Auricular Acupuncture (Ear Acupuncture) has been successful in treating problems ranging from obesity to alcoholism, to drug addiction.
Another popular treatment method is Moxibustion, which is the management of diseases by applying heat to Acupuncture points. Acupuncture and Moxibustion are considered complimentary forms of treatment, and are commonly used together. Moxibustion is used for aliments such as bronchial asthma, bronchitis, certain types of paralysis, and arthritic disorders.
The question arises, how does Acupuncture work? Scientists have no real answer to this; as you know many of the workings of the body are still a mystery. There are few prevailing theories. The Beta Endorphin Theory is the most testable and in-depth at explaining what occurs when one is treated with acupuncture.
There are many diseases that can be treated successfully by Acupuncture and its related treatments. The most common aliments currently being treated are: lower backache, Cervical Spondylosis, Condylitis, Arthritic Conditions, Headaches of all kinds (including migraine), Allergic reactions, general and specific use for Analgesia (including surgery) and relief of muscle spasms. There have also been clinical trials in the use of Acupuncture in treating anxiety disorders and depression. Likewise, very high success rates have been found in treating addictions to alcohol, tobacco (nicotine) and “hard” drugs.
Acupuncture should be considered a valid form of treatment alongside, not only other “alternative” forms of treatment, but also along side mainstream medicine. More and more insurance companies are discovering the cost effectiveness of Acupuncture. Unfortunately, some insurance companies still do not cover Acupuncture therapy, with the exception of Drug Addiction treatments; and then only if other therapies have been unsuccessful, or as part of another program.
Acupuncture Doctors are licensed independently in most states while some states require you to be a Medical Doctor to practice Acupuncture. (See Licensed vs. certified Acupuncturists in Q&A section).
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) comprises Acupuncture, Herbal Medicine, Moxibustion, and Tui Na Massage just to name a few and is a complete medical system, that is capable of diagnosing and successfully treating a wide range of conditions. Acupuncture is one of the most valuable tools for obtaining optimum health and promoting the prevention of disease.
The World Health Organization recognizes Acupuncture and Traditional Oriental Medicine’s ability to successfully treat over 45 common disorders such as:
- Pain management [Facial Rejuvenation (non- surgical face-lift)
- Headaches/Migraines [Psychological/emotional
- Infertility [ Allergies
- Stress elimination [Fibromyalgia
- Smoking cessation [Chronic fatigue syndrome
Excerpts taken from Jeffrey A. Singer ‘s paper on acupuncture.com
Excerpts taken from Jeffrey A. Singer ‘s paper on acupuncture.com
Neuro-Acupuncture, Scientific Evidence, Z.H. Cho
|
