The Question: What Is Acupuncture And How Can It Help?

By Jason Miller


The question is often posed; 'What is acupuncture?' It is a ancient form of Chinese healing based on the theory that there is a vital flow of energy within all living things. A free movement of this life force is necessary for optimal health. Chi, or energy, moves along set pathways called 'meridians'. Each pathway sustains a specific organ. Balance is all important, and this centuries-old practice is designed to restore and maintain a state of well-being.

Acupuncture stems from an even older practice called acupressure, in which healers used finger and hand pressure to help those suffering from pain or illness. The theory is that pressure on certain soft-tissue points in the body will stimulate the flow of 'chi' - the life-giving energy of all loving things. The chi nourishes each organ and system of the body, and an interruption of this vital flow can cause distress in many ways.

Think of the chi as circulation and the blockages in the flow as 'kinks', and you will get the picture, even if it is vastly over-simplified. Although the West did not embrace this healing methodology early on, many are now enthusiastic over the possibilities for health and well-being. Clinics use this especially for chronic back pain that might not benefit from surgery, and for migraine headache relief.

Many general practices now have an acupuncturist on staff, as well as massage therapists trained in 'shiatsu', based on acupressure theory. Ailments that can call for medication and surgery often respond to the safer, less invasive, and much more affordable alternatives of energy stimulation. Relief is often instant, and gradual improvement leading to complete recovery is common.

There are no known side effects to a session with an acupuncturist, and no lengthy recovery period as with surgery. The insertion of the needles is painless, with the mild discomfort of the actual insertion being fleeting and acceptable even to the squeamish. Different pressure points will be used to effect alleviation of pain or imbalance.

It is thought to be the stimulation of nerve endings and neurotransmitters that helps the body block pain and promote healing. Modern research and clinical tests validate the claims of effective relief of pain, stress-related problems like insomnia and anxiety, and restoration of health. The body can heal itself if its innate systems can function properly.

There may also be an enhanced production of endorphins, hormones that suppress pain and increase a feeling of well-being. This explains why this ancient method helps those suffering from mental distress and depression. It is a much safer approach than pharmaceuticals that may be addictive, have serious side effects, or make the patient feel drugged.

'What is acupuncture?' is a question that anyone not familiar with this ancient method of healing should ask. The health of you and your whole family might benefit greatly once you know the answer. Check out the American Association of Oriental Medicine for more information and the answers to all your questions and concerns. You can also find a practitioner near you in their directory.




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