Acupuncture
Like
all forms of Chinese healing traditions, acupuncture revolves around
the concept of maintaining balance and harmony within the body.
It
is thought that when chi (life energy) becomes stagnant and the
flow is disrupted, illness and disease result. In order to restore
chi distribution, needles are inserted into acupuncture points along
the meridians (energetic pathways) of the body. Due to the large
number of potential acupuncture points, (there are in excess of
350 acupoints on the meridians of the body) an acupuncturist carefully
selects the points to be used on the basis of:
- pulse/tongue
diagnosis
- observation
- examination
- questioning
From
the information garnered, the acupuncture points are determined
and needles are inserted. The size of the needles is dependent on
the area of the body where they are to be used. For example, longer,
thicker needles are used in areas where there is more "cushioning"
such as the buttocks, while small, thin needles are used where the
flesh is thinner and closer to the bone. In either case, insertion
of the needles is quick and virtually painless.
In
some instances the needles are simply left in place, but more commonly,
while inserted, the needles are gently moved using a rotating or
pumping action. This frees the blockage and restores chi flow in
the meridians, ultimately returning balance and healthy functioning
to body systems and organs.
What
can acupuncture treat?
Some
of the conditions that accupuncture can help are:
- allergies
- arthritis
and rheumatism
- digestive
problems
- headaches
and migraine
- insomnia
- morning
sickness and labour pains
- sinusitis
Cautions
and Contraindications:
For
most common ailments, acupuncture can be used safely, but should
only be administered by a qualified practitioner who follows correct
hygiene and sterilization procedures or uses disposable needles.
As
with any treatment, the patient must be comfortable, mentally and
physically with the course they have chosen. Therefore, if you are
apprehensive about having needles inserted, you are probably best
to avoid acupuncture therapy.
