What is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is an ancient form of Chinese medicine that treats energetic imbalances in the body. It has been practised for over two thousand years, and is a safe, effective to way to treat a variety of acute and chronic ailments.
Qi (Chi) is the vital energy of the body. This energy travels just below the skin through channels called meridians. The meridians connect all of the body’s organs and systems. Problems arise when this vital energy becomes blocked or weakened. When this occurs, imbalances in the body’s various systems become evident. Problems can arise in the nervous system, circulatory system, musculoskeletal system, digestive system, reproductive system, lymphatic system and/or genitourinary system. Stimulation of associated acupuncture points on the body helps to restore the smooth flow of Qi and bring harmony to the affected area.
How Does it Work?
Qi normally flows smoothly through over twelve meridians or channels in the body. If a blockage occurs and the Qi is not able to course through these channels, then the entire system can be affected, resulting in pain or symptoms in the body. Acupuncture removes the blockage to restore the flow of Qi throughout the body. It brings the body back into balance and removes the symptoms.
Acupuncture can interfere with pain signals in the body. It increases blood flow to the area being stimulated, enhancing nutrient and oxygen delivery, while aiding in the removal of lactic acid and toxic substances from the area. Acupuncture stimulates the natural healing ability of the body, reduces pain and inflammation, and imparts a general sense of calmness and wellbeing in the person being treated.
Does it Hurt?
No. The needles that are used are extremely thin and are placed in anatomical positions where major blood vessels and nerves are absent. When the needles are placed correctly, you may experience a mild to moderate dull or tingling feeling.
How Many Treatments Will I Need?
The number of sessions varies with each individual and condition. In general, chronic problems will need to be treated longer than acute ones. After the first treatment, some people may notice an immediate temporary improvement, but for long-term effects, at least 4–6 weekly treatments are needed, followed by bi-weekly and then monthly treatments. Eventually, you may only need a couple of treatments a year to maintain the results.
What Can Acupuncture Be Used For?
Acupuncture can be used to treat a wide array of health concerns, including:
- Acute and chronic pain
- Headaches and migraines
- Shoulder and neck pain
- Arthritic pain
- Injuries, including strains, sprains, golfer’s elbow, tennis elbow, tendonitis, and hip, knee and ankle pain
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Back pain
- Stress
- Digestive complaints
- Fertility issues
- Skin disorders
- Neurological symptoms
- Menstrual cramps
- Nausea during pregnancy
- Energetic imbalances
- Lack of general wellbeing
Try These Acupressure Points at Home to Reduce Anxiety, Headaches, Nausea and Dizziness
Pericardium 6 (PC 6)
Function: Reduces nausea, motion sickness, sea-sickness, vomiting, dizziness and anxiety
Location: Approximately 2 inches above the wrist crease between the tendons of the anterior forearm
Large Intestine 4 (LI 4)
Function: Reduces chronic pain, frontal and sinus headaches, and improves immunity
Location: On the back of the hand, in the middle of the soft flesh between your thumb and index finger
Yintang
Function: Reduces anxiety, stress and insomnia, calms the mind, and reduces sinusitis and frontal headaches
Location: Halfway between the inner edges of the eyebrows
Sit back, breathe deeply and relax while you press on these points…or call to book an individualized acupuncture treatment.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is not meant to replace treatment with a licensed healthcare practitioner. It is for informational purposes only. Consult with a Naturopathic Doctor or other licensed healthcare professional to determine which treatments are safe for you.