Acupuncture
Traditional Chinese Theory of Acupuncture
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), including acupuncture, is one of the oldest medical practices that dates back as far as 5,000 years. The ancient Chinese developed this system based on the idea that pathways of energy, or “qi” (pronounced chee), run in regular patterns through the body and over its surface. An obstruction in the movement of these energy rivers can cause imbalance, pain and dysfunction. This energy, or qi, can also be depleted as a result of stress, overwork, chronic illness, or malnutrition.
The meridians and energy flow are accessible through more than 350 acupuncture points. By inserting needles into these points in precise combinations, acupuncture practitioners aim to reestablish balance and flow of qi.
Western Acupuncture Theory
Acupuncture can be used to stimulate (or relax) the nervous system, muscles, and connective tissue Considerable evidence supports the claim that opioid peptides (your body’s natural painkillers) are released during acupuncture. Stimulation by acupuncture needles may also activate the hypothalamus and the pituitary gland (glands that regulate hormone release in your body), resulting in a broad spectrum of systemic effects. Alteration in the secretion of neurotransmitters and neurohormones and changes in the regulation of blood flow, both centrally and peripherally, have been documented. There is also evidence of alterations in immune functions produced by acupuncture.
What conditions can benefit from acupuncture:
A wide variety of conditions can benefit from acupuncture. Specifically, The National Institute of Health (NIH) Consensus on Acupuncture states that acupuncture may be a useful treatment in the following conditions:
- Postoperative and chemotherapy induced nausea and vomiting,
- Postoperative dental pain
- Addiction
- Stroke rehabilitation
- Headache & Migraine
- Menstrual cramps
- Tennis elbow
- Chronic Fatigue and Fibromyalgia
- Myofacial pain
- Osteoarthritis
- Low Back Pain
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Asthma
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