Acupuncture

Acupuncture is a treatment that has been in practice for thousands of years and one many will swear by. It is based on ancient Chinese theories of the constantly changing flow of energy called "qi", through distinct pathways or "meridians". These pathways cover the body somewhat like the nerves and blood vessels. The belief is that acupuncture will aid and improve this flow, thereby bringing relief from pain.

Some have much faith in this practice and will swear by its effectiveness, some think it is crazy and others, me included, remain completely neutral.

The process of acupuncture requires a trained acupuncturist. Here in the United States we have more than 10,000 trained acupuncturists, 40 acupuncture schools and many medical schools teaching acupuncture. One should be careful in choosing a acupuncturist because there are many out there who are self-proclaimed acupuncturists when in fact, they aren't trained at all. In some states doctors are the only persons allowed to be practicing acupuncture should they choose to do so.

If you think this procedure is something you'd like to try, ask your doctor for a referral or contact the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture at www.ncaaom.org or call the Oriental Medicine or the American Academy of Medical Acupuncture at (800) 521-2262.

The procedure itself involves short, thin needles that are inserted into specific points on the body known as acupoints that are meant to treat or prevent illness. The acupoints are associated with specific internal organs or organ systems.

Studies have shown that when needles are inserted into the skin at the nerves in the underlying muscles are stimulated, leading to the release of chemicals in the brain that block pain signals. The needles can sting some, but will not hurt. They are left in the skin for about ten minutes to an hour, depending on the ailment.

In Asia, many illnesses are treated with Acupuncture whereas here in the United States it is mainly used to relieve chronic pain caused by the following ailments:

• Arthritis
• Back problems
• Premenstrual syndrome
• Dental Surgery
• Withdrawal from addictions such as drug and alcohol dependency
• Eye, ear, nose, throat, respiratory, gastrointestinal and muscular disorders
• Problems with the nervous system
• Relief of nausea caused by morning sickness
• Chemotherapy
• Anesthesia