How does acupuncture work?

Although you have likely heard about acupuncture before, do you know how it actually works?

Acupuncture works on specific points of your body to address issues you are experiencing. If you would like to know more, keep reading or give Health & Healing Wellness a call on 07 3857 8887.

What is acupuncture?

Acupuncture is an ancient practice of natural healing from the Asia. It is one form of the traditional Chinese system of medicine which has been used for over 5,000 years and has been gaining use in the western world over the last 30 to 40 years or so.

Acupuncture involves the stimulation of certain specific points on the body to enhance the flow of vital energy. This energy travels on the surface of the body and through internal organs. In traditional Chinese medicine, the central belief is that for the body to function at its peak it must be in balance.

How does acupuncture work?

Acupuncture works by inserting small, fine, and sterile one-use needles into specific points, known as ‘acupuncture points’ around the body. These points are located along energy pathways, otherwise known as ‘meridians’, and placing needles into these areas is designed to clear energy blockages and promote the regular flow of energy, also called ‘Qi’ or ‘Chi’. Removing these blockages can address a range of issues, from relieving headaches to assisting with weight loss.

Scientific trials around the world have found that when acupuncture is performed by a skilled practitioner, it is a safe and useful treatment for many different disorders. - Victorian State Government

Acupuncture doesn’t just have to use needles though - other ways to stimulate acupuncture points includes through:

• Massage.
• Laser therapy.
• Moxibustion.
• Cupping.
• Electro-stimulation.

What health conditions can acupuncture be used for?

Acupuncture can be used for a huge variety of health conditions including:

• Painful conditions such as a headache, migraine, osteoarthritis, renal colic, biliary colic, post-operative pain, dental analgesia.
• Musculoskeletal conditions such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, sports injuries, back and neck pain, tennis elbow, fibromyalgia, rheumatism.
• Neurological conditions such as sciatica, trigeminal neuralgia, peripheral neuropathy, stroke sequelae, Bell's palsy.
• Gynaecological problems such as painful menstruation, irregular periods, premenstrual syndrome, menopausal syndrome.
• Pregnancy and labour such as infertility, fertility, morning sickness, labour pain, induction of labour, long labour.
• Gastrointestinal disorders such as nausea, vomiting, irritable bowel syndrome, constipation, diarrhoea, gastric/ duodenal ulcer, chronic ulcerative colitis, loss of appetite.
• Ear, nose and throat disorders such as sinusitis, rhinitis, tonsillitis, sore throat, mouth ulcers, tinnitus, Meniere's disease.
• Weight Loss and weight management.
• Urogenital disorders such as prostatitis, impotence, retained urine, urinary tract infection.
• Cardiovascular disorders such as primary hypertension, high blood pressure, angina pectoris.
• Addictions such as smoking and alcohol as well as drug withdrawals.
• Other problems such as the common cold and influenza, cough, allergies, immunity, gout, anxiety, stress, insomnia, fatigue and skin disorders.

And so many more.

Who can have acupuncture?

Almost anyone can have acupuncture, however it is always strongly recommended you speak to your health professional and an acupuncturist before commencing any treatments.

What benefits does acupuncture offer?

According to the AACMA, acupuncture offers a range of benefits such as:

• Addressing the underlying cause of a problem, as well as the symptoms.
• Providing an overall holistic approach to an issue.
• Helping in the prevention of disease and the maintenance of general well-being.
• Providing drug-free pain relief focus.
• It can be effective in the treatment of acute and chronic ailments (see The Acupuncture Evidence Project for more information).

If you would like further information, give Health & Healing Wellness a call on 07 3857 8887 .

Resources:

https://www.livescience.com/29494-acupuncture.html#:~:text=%22One%20major%20hypothesis%20is%20that,hormones%20such%20as%20beta%2DEndorphins.
https://www.healthline.com/health/acupuncture-how-does-it-work-scientifically
https://www.acupuncture.org.au/acupuncture-and-chinese-medicine/acupuncture/
https://www.webmd.com/pain-management/features/acupuncture-pain-killer#1
https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/acupuncture