For thousands of years, acupuncture, the insertion of very thin needles
into certain parts of the body, has been used as an alternative
medicine. Over the last thirty years, this Chinese-born procedure has
enjoyed a surge in popularity in the Western world. According to ancient
Chinese methodology, acupuncture is used to re-balance a person's
natural energy flow, or chi. The more modern, Western explanation of the
practice states that the insertion of these needles into certain points
stimulates blood flow, while simultaneously releasing the body's
natural painkillers.
Acupuncture is used in the treatment and alleviation of symptoms for a number of different medical issues. Some of these problems include migraines, lower back pain, menstrual cramps, tendonitis, and postoperative dental pains. Chinese theory states that all humans have a natural energy, or chi, flowing through them. This energy flows through certain pathways in the body referred to as meridians. Inserting very thin needles into these meridians are believed to stimulate the body's natural pain-reducing chemicals, as well as releasing endorphins, serotonin, and norepinephrine, which affect energy and mood. In some cases, the doctor or acupuncturist will gently twist the needles, or charge them with a very mild electric current to further stimulate the areas that are being penetrated. Scientists are still not fully sure why acupuncture has an effect on pain and mood, and some studies have shown that the procedure bears no benefits at all. Still, many patients swear by it, and regularly incorporate the procedure in their treatment plans.
Typically speaking, acupuncturists are required to obtain licensure from the acupuncture board of a given state. These practitioners are usually required to complete a certain number of training and field work hours. In some states, doctors such as dentists, podiatrists, and chiropractors are permitted to perform these procedures, but only on the parts of the body that they are licensed to practice upon. In the United States, acupuncturists are required to use disposable needles, in order to prevent the spread of certain infectious diseases. Acupuncturists are typically not permitted to give injections of any sort, nor are they allowed to use hypodermic needles while practicing. Acupuncturists are permitted to use certain massage techniques, the implementation of temperature-based compresses, and herbal remedies, as well as to offer dietary advice. In choosing an acupuncturist, it is important to first consult people that you trust. This includes, but is not limited to, your doctor, relatives, or friends who have had good experiences with the procedure. It is also important to check with your insurance provider, to see how much coverage you will receive.
Assuming you chose a competent, credible practitioner, the risks associated with acupuncture are generally very low. The most common complaint is mild bruising and soreness around the penetrated areas. Because the needles are so thin, bleeding very rarely occurs, and any bleeding is typically very mild. There can, however, be more serious complications, particularly if the practitioner is careless or inexperienced. In rare cases, damage to internal organs has occurred, due to the needles being pushed in too deeply. If the acupuncturist implements used or unsterilized needles, serious diseases can be spread. There are certain groups of people that should probably not consider acupuncture. Because some bleeding can occur, people with bleeding disorders or who are taking blood thinners are typically not considered good candidates. Due to the fact that some practitioners use electrical currents as a part of treatment, patients using pacemakers might avoid acupuncture, as the electricity can interfere with the proper functioning of their device. Pregnant women are also advised not to seek the help of an acupuncturist, as certain types of treatment have been known to prematurely induce labor.
