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Introduction to Acupuncture

Acupuncture forms part of traditional Chinese medicine. It has been claimed that it is one of the oldest forms of healing throughout the world. Underneath acupuncture is the belief that a disruption in the flow of imbalances and qi within the forces of both yin and yang cause diseases to occur. A combination of herbs, massage, meditation and acupuncture are believed to restore the balance of yin-hang and the flow of qi and this helps the healing process. Acupuncture is the stimulation of specific points of the body, which removes blockages in the flow of qi and therefore restores and maintains one's health. In the United States, acupuncture is known to be an area of alternative medicine, and is not widely accepted as part of conventional medicine.

Because acupuncture is not always accepted as being part of traditional medicine, there are several points that we should consider about this treatment:

Chinese and other Asian people have used acupuncture for thousands of years.

Scientists are currently studying the effectiveness of acupuncture for treating many conditions.

Few complications arise as a result of acupuncture, although there can be serious side effects if it is not performed by a person who is suitably qualified.

Although acupuncture has existed in China and other Asian countries for several years, it has only been used in the United States since 1971. Since it was introduced, many people have chosen to use it for a multitude of conditions, including chronic pain, arthritis, post-surgical pain and migraines. Many people do not like the thought of needles being injected into them, but most are extremely happy with the benefits achieved from using acupuncture. Many people try acupuncture after all traditional medical procedures have failed to help them.

One should not be scared of acupuncture as long as you are treated by a qualified practitioner. Sometimes, practitioners do not follow proper safety procedures or people choose a practitioner who is not suitably qualified and this can lead to problems. Nobody would visit a medical doctor who was not properly qualified to treat you, and one should take the same care when choosing an acupuncture practitioner. In the United States, use of the needles is regulated by the FDA, and can even include a requirement for one time use.

Understand the procedure and be careful about choosing a qualified practitioner, and you will gain a better result from acupuncture and will be able to make a decision about the benefits you may obtain. One should never choose a practitioner until you have first conducted your own research.