 |
 |
Acupuncture
What
is acupuncture?
What
is the background of acupuncture?
What
are the indications for acupuncture?
What
are the contraindications?
Patient testimonial
What is acupuncture?
- Acupuncture involves
inserting very thin needles into precise points on the body to promote
healing and improve functioning.
- Needles are placed
into precise locations on the body known as acupuncture points.
- The needles may
be stimulated with electric or heat.
- Typically, the
needling will cause a slight pinching sensation, but otherwise is not
painful.
- According to the
Traditional Chinese explanation, illness results from the blockage of
the flow of energy or Qi through the body. According to this tradition,
the use of acupuncture helps to open up the flow of Qi and restore balance
to the system.
- The western medicine
explanation is that acupuncture needles send a mild pain message to
the brain. The brain responds by sending a pain-relieving message electrically
and chemically back to the body.
What is the
background of acupuncture?
- Acupuncture was
developed in China over 2500 years ago as part of a system of medical
treatment that also includes the use of herbal agents, as well as a
unique understanding of health and disease.
- Acupuncture techniques
have been adapted in various countries including Japan, Korea, France,
the UK, as well as the United States.
- Acupuncture is
most widely known as part of Traditional Oriental Medicine. Other forms
include auricular therapy, Korean hand acupuncture, and western medicine
approaches. In particular, a form of electroacupuncture called Percutaneous
Electrical Nerve Stimulation (PENS) has been used to treat localized
musculoskeletal problems.
- Research has shown benefit for acupuncture in the treatment of osteoarthritis and other musculoskeletal pain.
What are the
indications for acupuncture?
Acupuncture is most
commonly used to treat:
There is promising
research supporting the use of acupuncture for other conditions such as
menstrual problems and nausea. It can also be used for other conditions
such as abdominal pain, hypertension, and other problems related to cancer
or chemotherapy.
What are the
contraindications?
Patients who are pregnant, have a pacemaker or heart condition, have a
seizure disorder, or those with a bleeding disorder or taking blood thinners
should discuss this with the acupuncturist before proceeding with acupuncture.
While acupuncture can be used to treat symptoms in cancer patients, it
should not be used in lieu of standard medical treatment.
|
 |
