Acupuncture is one of several popular alternative therapies
tracing its roots to traditional medicine in China more than
5,000 years ago. Although the treatment is regarded as one of
the most common and oldest worldwide, acupuncture only started
to become recognized in the US after New York Times journalist
James Reston wrote a feature on how his post-surgery pain was
eased by doctors in China in 1971 using the procedure.
1. The Basis Of Acupuncture
The treatment assumes something called qi (pronounced key) -
energy in living beings that passes through twelve meridians or
invisible energy lines in the body. Each line links to a
specific organ system; the belief is that any imbalance in qi
flow leads to a disease. The key component of acupuncture
treatment is the insertion of needles into key points on the
meridian lines to renew balance. These extremely thin, metallic
needles are aimed at specific anatomical points and controlled
manually or by electrical stimulation. An individual usually
feels relaxed and energized after acupuncture.
2. Modern Treatment
The US Food and Drug Administration reclassified these needles
as medical devices in 1997, from the earlier classification as
experimental. The FDA notes that over $500m are spent by people
in the country every year for the treatment, for which a good
number secure insurance coverage. The agency's main restrictions
with the needles are that they be non-toxic and sterilized and
that they be used only once and discarded immediately after.
- Acupuncture is endorsed by the National Institute of Health -
Is practiced by dentists, doctors and other health practitioners
3. Increasing Acceptance
Increasing acceptance of acupuncture was highlighted by the
National Health Interview Survey in 2002, which indicated that
the number of American adults turning to the treatment surged
from 2.1 million in 2001 to about 8.2 million the following
year. The interest in acupuncture also received a boost from the
impatience individuals had with the failure of conventional
medicine.
4. How Does It Really Work?
Acupuncture reportedly induces the release of endorphins in the
body, relieving an indivudal from pain. Other effects attributed
to the therapy include influence over neurotransmitters, or
substances transporting nerve impulses; promotion of
circulation; and effects over the body's electrical currents and
autonomic nervous system. Many common ailments and undesirable
conditions are addressed by acupuncture treatment.
5. Commonly Treated Conditions
- Sinusitis - The common cold - Smoking and other addictions -
Migraines - Tennis elbow - Infertility - Menstrual cramps -
Obesity - Low-back pain - Asthma - Arthritis - Carpal tunnel
syndrome
6. Procedure
On the first meeting, acupuncturists usually ask new clients to
fill up a personal health record prior to an interview. A
session then has the client answer questions that cover main
health issues, diet, emotional and psychological profile, and
overall lifestyle and regular activities. The therapist should
also be informed by the individual of any current medication and
treatment being taken. During this interview, one can also
expect the practitioner to evaluate pulse points and establish
how healthy the individual's twelve meridians are. A diagnosis
is then given, followed by the use of between 6 and 12 needles
as treatment is commenced. Patients keen on acupuncture must
realize that the exact placement on target points on the
meridians is more important, not the number of needles used.
The initial insertion may make the patient feel pricked or
stung. However, the treatment should be painless and comfortable
for the duration that could extend to an hour or more. An
individual should immediately tell the acupuncturist to
discontinue if he feels any numbness, discomfort or pain.
Variations of the treatment may involve use of herbal medicine -
capsules, tablets or tea made from Chinese herbs to boost the
therapy. Some practitioners also integrate cupping - a suction
effect created with the use of glass cups on the skin, in part
to promote blood circulation and continuous qi flow.
7. Rising Popularity
The recent withdrawal of the Vioxx painkiller has raised
apprehension over pain relievers available in the market. This
concern, combined with statements from the NIH and other
government and health organizations that side effects from
acupuncture are significantly lower, has made more individuals
turn to the treatment, particularly for pain relief. Several
studies have also shown how acupuncture has helped patients with
osteoarthritis, post-chemotherapy nausea and even depression.
Despite all the apparent positive feedback, those considering
acupuncture should still consult regular doctors and health-care
professionals for advice on their conditions first. If they
decide to pursue the treatment, they must make sure that the
acupuncturist or practitioner they see is highly-qualified and
certified by organizations such as the American Academy of
Medical Acupuncturists.
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