Healing Through Acupuncture

Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) practice that originated thousands of years ago. It is based on the premise that a blockage or disturbance in the flow of the body's life energy, or “qi,” can cause health issues. Hair-thin needles are inserted to specific acupuncture points throughout the body to restore the flow of qi, balance the body’s energy, stimulate healing, and promote relaxation. Ahhh..sounds nice. According to TCM theory, there are over 1,000 acupuncture points on the body, each lying on an invisible energy channel, or “meridian.” Each meridian is associated with a different organ system.

There are numerous theories. One theory is that acupuncture works by stimulating the release of endorphins, the body's natural pain-relieving chemicals.

5 Benefits of Acupuncture:

• Reduces inflammation
• Improves digestion for proper elimination
• Betters sleep for restoration
• Prevents injury
• Boosts the immune system to protect against invaders

Acupuncture is also said to influence the autonomic nervous system (which controls bodily functions) and the release of chemicals that regulate blood flow and pressure, reduce inflammation, and calm the brain.

Acupuncture is said to be useful in addressing a variety of health conditions, including:

• Anxiety
  
• Arthritis
• Chronic pain (such as headaches, back pain, neck pain)
• Depression
• Insomnia
• Migraines
• Nausea
• Sciatica
• Sinus congestion
• Stress and anxiety
• Tinnitus
• Weight loss

Some people use acupuncture to promote fertility. It is also used to quit smoking and as a component of the treatment for other addictions. Cosmetic acupuncture , also known as facial acupuncture, is used to improve the appearance of skin.

Here's a look at some findings from the available research on the benefits of acupuncture:

Low Back Pain

For a report published in the Annals of Internal Medicine in 2017, researchers analyzed previously published trials on the use of non-pharmacologic therapies (including acupuncture) for low back pain.

The report's authors found that acupuncture was associated with decreased pain intensity and better function immediately after an acupuncture treatment, compared with no acupuncture.

Migraines

In a 2016 review published in the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, scientists reviewed 22 previously published trials (involving 4985 participants). In their conclusion, they found that adding acupuncture to the treatment of migraine symptoms may reduce the frequency of episodes.

Tension Headaches

A 2016 review (involving 12 trials and 2349 participants) suggested that acupuncture involving at least six sessions may help people with frequent tension headaches.

In two studies, acupuncture added to usual care or treatment at the headache onset only (usually with pain medication) resulted in decreased headache frequency compared to those given usual care only.

The researchers note that the specific points used during treatment may play a less important role than previously thought and that much of the benefit may be due to needling effects.

Knee Pain

An analysis of previously published studies found that acupuncture improved physical function in the short and long term in people with chronic knee pain due to osteoarthritis.

Another review, published in JAMA Surgery , analyzed previous studies on non-pharmacological interventions for pain management after total knee arthroplasty and found evidence that acupuncture delayed the use of patient-controlled use of opioid medication to relieve pain.

Before the initial appointment, you will be asked to complete health history. Dr. Diana might begin the visit by asking you about your health concerns, diet, sleep, stress level, and other lifestyle habits. You may be asked about your emotions, appetite, food likes and dislikes, and response to changes in temperature and seasons.

During your visit, the Dr. Diana Mladenoff will examine your appearance carefully, noting your complexion, voice, and tongue color and coating. She will take your pulse at three points on each wrist, noting the strength, quality, and rhythm. In Chinese medicine, the tongue and pulses are considered to reflect the health of your organ systems and meridians.

Typically, Dr. Diana will use anywhere from six to more than 20 tiny needles per treatment (the number of needles doesn't indicate the intensity of the treatment). The needles are often left in for 10 to 20 minutes.

Depending on what you're dealing with, Dr. Diana may use additional techniques during your session including:

• Low Level Laser + acupuncture : This method is said to stimulate acupuncture points in addition to the use of needles to reduce inflammation and increase blood flow.

Ear acupuncture , also known as auricular acupuncture, is sometimes used during the treatment for weight loss, headaches, and anxiety.

Although the length of the acupuncture session can vary from a few minutes to over an hour, the typical treatment length is 20 to 30 minutes. The initial visit may take up to 90 minutes, including time for an intake and taking your medical history.

After the treatment, some people feel relaxed (or even sleepy), while others feel energetic. If you experience any unusual symptoms, you should consult your doctor.

You may feel a slight sting, pinch, ache, or some pain as the acupuncture needle is being inserted. Most people report feeling relaxed and at ease.

If you are having difficulty managing pain or other health issues with conventional methods, acupuncture may be worth a try. Schedule an appointment today. CALL or TEXT (602) 524-0222.

Source: VeryWell Health Online. Read the full article here.