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The Origin of Acupuncture
Acupuncture is a treatment that has grown in popularity over the years, evolving into a widely beneficial form of integrative medicine used all around the world. This practice originated in China in 2500 BC and was first used in the U.S. during the 1800s. During this time, many believed acupuncture to be a hoax and an unreliable source of treatment, so the practice was slowly discontinued. Many years later, patients who experienced unsuccessful medical procedures and surgeries turned to acupuncture as a holistic remedy for their ailments. With more and more patients coming forward to advocate for the effectiveness of acupuncture over the years, the practice was then publicized in 1997 with the U.S. National Institute of Health citing the positive results of acupuncture treatments. This lead to the widespread implementation of acupuncture treatments across the United States.
So, what is acupuncture and how can it benefit human health?
What is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese method of internal healing. Chinese medicine is based on the principle of aligning forces−yin and yang−between the universe and the body. Vital energy called “qi” is naturally produced in specific pathways of the body while keeping the forces of yin and yang in unison. It is believed that when these two forces are in balance, the body is in a healthy state. When these forces become unbalanced, pathways are blocked, causing a disruption to the natural exertion and production of qi. This causes things like weakened immunity, poor temperature regulation, chronic pain, illnesses, infections, and other health conditions. Acupuncture was originally practiced as internal medicine to promote natural self-healing to balance these two forces, resulting in the body’s return to homeostasis and proper healing.
In ancient times, acupuncture was initially practiced by stimulating specific acupuncture points (acupoints) with sharpened, needle-like bone fragments. By inserting these fragments into the acupoints, it is said to release the pathway blockages allowing optimal qi flow; therefore, supplying healing properties to the body whilst yin and yang forces stabilize. Today, acupuncture procedures have advanced from using bone fragments to inserting sterilized needle-point pins into acupoints to reduce negative energy, pain, and stimulate the body back to proper functioning. With the evolution of this practice, we have seen improved techniques, new acupoint sites, and greater results after treatments. Acupuncture is now proven to be an effective treatment for stress and many underlying health conditions such as…
- Nausea or vomiting caused by chemotherapy
- Dental pain
- Headaches and migraines
- Labor pains
- Back and neck pain
- Arthritis
- Menstrual pains
- Respiratory disorders
- Depression
Acupuncture Procedures
Acupuncture is performed by licensed specialists who have studied acupunctural therapy for years. A typical acupuncture session includes the specialist taking approximately 30 minutes to ask detailed questions about the patients’ overall health, medical history, and/or lifestyle. They may also ask about pain, emotions, health conditions, and medications to accurately assess the patient before treatment.
The specialist will then create a specific treatment plan of precise needle insertions. This may require clothing to be removed depending on the location of the acupoints. The patient will lay on a padded table, much like a massage table, and proceed with their session. A typical insertion treatment may last 30 minutes to an hour, using an average of 5 to 20 needles−although, the needles are not typically left in the skin for that long. Additional needles may be required depending on the patient’s condition, resulting in a longer session time. These needles mimic the width of a thin strand of hair and are often painless upon insertion, although some may feel a small prick. It is said to be less painful than a vaccine, as these needles are solid and much thinner than hollow medical needles.
Patients often book sessions once or twice a week depending on the condition being treated. Sometimes it is required to schedule an average of 6 to 8 treatments a month over multiple months, as it may take time to see improvements. Many patients tend to feel relaxed or energized and may show advancements in sleep patterns and mental clarity after just one session. Some may feel tired or sore after their session, with symptoms improving after a few hours or days.
Takeaways
Acupuncture can be very beneficial to your health and may help you overcome your health concerns. Before considering acupunctural therapy, consult with a trusted healthcare provider to discuss your condition and if this treatment would be beneficial to you. Many insurance providers cover acupuncture treatment costs. Confirm with your health insurance provider if the costs of treatments are included in your plan.
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