Why is acupuncture effective?
Acupuncture is based on ancient Chinese beliefs of
energy and blood flow throughout the distinct
pathways (meridians) that network the body, much like nerves
and blood vessels. In this theory,
insertion of acupuncture needles at various points along
the body's meridians enables energy and blood to flow into areas where
there is
a deficiency and away from areas of excess. These
changes in flow create balance and harmony in the body,
which allows the body to naturally restore itself.
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What health conditions
are typically treated?
According to the World Health Organization (WHO),
acupuncture is a safe and effective treatment for the following
conditions:
- Lungs -
Some bronchial asthmas.
- Ears, Nose, and Throat
- Toothaches, pain after tooth
extraction, ear aches, sinus inflammation, nasal
inflammation or dryness.
- Eyes -
Central retina and conjunctiva inflammation, nearsightedness (in children), and
some cataracts.
- Stomach and Intestines
- Digestive tract problems, hiccups, inflammation of
the stomach, chronic duodenal ulcers, inflammation
of the colon, constipation, diarrhea, dysentery
caused by certain bacteria.
- Nerves - Headaches, migraines,
some facial
paralyses and nerve pain, post-stroke weakness, nerve ending
inflammation, and sciatica.
- Muscles - Tennis elbow,
frozen shoulder, lower back pain, osteoarthritis,
knee pain, sprains and strains.
- Miscellaneous -
Incontinence (including bed wetting) and many
gynecological problems.
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How much pain will there be?
If your acupuncturist has correctly placed the needles,
you should feel some cramping,
heaviness, tingling, and/or electric sensation around the needles or traveling up or down the
affected meridian, or energy pathway. In Chinese,
acupuncture is described as bu tong, painless. In
the West, it may be categorized as types of
pain. Nevertheless, if you experience any discomfort, it
is generally mild.
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Are the needles sterilized?
The most common practice among acupuncturists in the U.
S. today
is to disposable, individually packaged, stainless steel
needles. Needles are not saved and reused for
other treatments. This eliminates all risk of contamination.
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What is the depth of needle insertion?
Depending upon the specifics of the health condition,
acupuncture point location, patient's size, age, constitution, and the acupuncturist's
methodology, the needles are typically inserted about a
quarter of an inch but could be as deep as one inch.
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Do all acupuncturists practice the same methodology?
Acupuncture originated in China thousands of years ago but has
spread throughout the world. Multiple styles were
created as a result of differing opinions on
theory and technique. Talk to your
acupuncturist about their methodology and research their
style prior to beginning treatment.
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How
long will it take to make a difference?
It depends upon the
your health problem; nevertheless, a single treatment
could produce results for
an acute condition or it may take a series of
treatments for some chronic problems. Some
conditions may require many treatments over
time. Ask your acupuncturist for an estimate about this
prior to beginning treatment.
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What preparations should
be made prior to an appointment?
Prior to your first treatment, be prepared to provide
your medical history and list of current medications.
Come relaxed and wearing easily removed clothing.
Generally, you will be asked to remove your clothing,
except your under garments, and dress in a hospital type
gown. You may want to visit the restroom prior to
beginning your treatment because an appoint could last
up to an hour and a half.
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What happens during an
appointment?
The first treatment starts by laying either on your back
or stomach (depends upon the condition). The areas to
have needles inserted will be wiped with alcohol, then
the needles are inserted. Once all needles are in place,
electrical probes are are attached to some of the top of
approximately eight needles. A small current is applied,
just to the point at which you can feel it. The current
continues for approximately ten minutes. While the
needles are inserted, you should remain relatively
motionless. You should relax.
If anything becomes painful or
uncomfortable, just tell your acupuncturist. There could
be occasions where a needle insertion is painful. Tell
your acupuncturist and it will be adjusted. There should
be no pain. Discuss any and all concerns about the
treatment with your acupuncturist.
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How will I feel after a treatment?
Hopefully, you are relaxed. You may feel tired after a
session or energized. Your reaction will depend upon
your condition.
You may notice a small drop of blood at one or more of the
needle sites and a small bruise could develop. These
should not be harmful, but please talk to your
acupuncturist if you are concerned.
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How can I get more information?
There are many websites that provide information
regarding acupuncture and we recommend
The American Academy of Medical Acupuncture.
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