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What is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is the gentle insertion of hair-fine needles into specific body points to treat health at the level of Qi. The Qi (pronounced 'chee') is the life force or the subtle vital energy that motivates all living things. "Acu" actually derives from the Greek root word 'acus' which means needle.
The invisible Qi is believed to circulate via a system of conduits; the principle ones being the meridian or channels, as well as through the blood (Xue). THis gives vital force to all living matter. The conuits resemble those of the vascular or nervous system. Each has a network of main channels and minor capillaries. When the Qi flows well, there is harmony and balance. If it is blocked or stagnates, then disease results. Needles are inserted along these meridians in an attempt to influence the flow to the internal organs. This can have a profound effect on the structure and function of these organs.
Often, immediate relief is obtained. This is because acupuncture stimulates the release of endorphins. These are the body's own morphine-like substances. They are natural pain killers. These substances are responsible for the 'high' the runner or aerobic dancer feels after the effort.
On a deeper level, and with more lasting results, acupuncture works with the body's more subtle energy "Qi". Blockages are removed and healing energy is allowed to flow. Progress is variable. Sometimes the results are immediate and quite a surprise to a patient who has been ailing for a long time.
Acupuncture can affect the emotions. Sessions can have a deep calming effect. This benefit can be appreciated in our increasingly high stress society. This emotional release helps the healing energies to flow.
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Does It Work?
Absolutely! In 1980, the World Health Organization (WHO) of the United Nations released the following list of 43 conditions that could be helped by acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine.
- Neurological: headaches, migraines, post-operative pain, stroke residuals, Parkinson's disease, bladder dysfunction
- Musculo-skeletal: muscle pain and weakness, sciatica, backache or pain, muscle cramping, arthritis, disc problems
- Digestive: abdominal pain, hyperacidity, chronic diarrhea, indigestion, constipation
- Eye, Ear, and Dental: poor vision, central retinitis, cataract (without complications), tinnitus, nervous deafness, toothache, post extraction pain, gum problems
- Respiratory: sinusitis, common cold, tonsillitis, bronchitis, asthma
- Gynecological: infertility, PMS, cramps, menopause symptoms
- Emotional: insomnia, depression, anxiety, nervousness, neurosis
- Other benefits: increased vitality and energy, stress reduction, skin rejuvenation, weight control, nicotine, alcohol and other addiction control, enhanced athletic performance, immune system tonification, regulated blood pressure.
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Safety
These needles are ultra fine, unlike hypodermic needles. Some ten to fifteen acupuncture needles can fit into a normal hypodermic needle. Acupuncturists gain skill in placing these needles in the relevant points. The process is generally painless. Disposable and sterile needles are used. Thus, there is no risk of infection.
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Natural Healing
Acupuncture is drug free. Therefore, there are no side effects. Dependency is not a problem. The good rules of seeing any health care practitioner apply. Tell your acupuncturist about your medications and whether you have a pacemaker or therapeutic as well as cosmetic implants. It is important that you alert your acupuncturist about a pregnancy.
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Potentiation
In addition to the insertion of a needle, the acupuncturist may choose to apply heat or stimulate the needle with a very low voltage of electricity (no more than what is generated by a flashlight battery). This technique is called 'electrostimulation'. These are additional tools to accelerate the healing process.
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