Healthy
Living -- pages 20 - 24
To your Health !
- The Benefits of Acupuncture -
Acupuncture can still be a controversial topic in certain company . While some swear by it , there are those that argue there is no definitive proof it works , while others still would never consider it because it involves needles . Those needles , though , are so thin that the pain is nominal , if not non-existent ; sometimes they can cause a burning or tingling sensation . They are inserted through special points on the patient ' s body , to certain depths , depending on the ailment or location of pain or discomfort .
Acupuncture is based on traditional Chinese medicine and works on the premise that health is the result of a harmonious balance within the body , known as " qi " ( pronounced chi ); illness is believed to be the consequence of imbalanced qi . Acupuncture practitioners explain that qi - our vital life force - flows through the meridians , or pathways , in the body . The meridians are accessible through 350 acupuncture points throughout the body . While some Western doctors and scientists say the existence of qi cannot be proved , there are neuroscientists who theorize that acupuncture points are where muscles , connective tissue , and nerves can be stimulated to increase blood flow , which activates the body ' s natural pain fighting abilities .
Acupuncture is most often used by people who are experiencing back , knee , and neck pain , headaches and migraines , stress , and osteoarthritis . The World Health Organization says there are a number of conditions that acupuncture does improve , including high and low blood pressure , gastric conditions , allergies , side effects of chemotherapy treatments , sciatica , and rheumatoid arthritis .
When you see an acupuncturist , he or she will insert needles in particular pressure points , depending on the presenting condition , and leave them in for anywhere from 5 - 30 minutes . The patient often feels a sense of deep relaxation . Needles are sterile , non-toxic , and labeled for single use only . Expect to pay between $ 50 - $ 75 per treatment . Some insurance policies will cover the cost , but more often than not , it is an out-of-pocket expense . The number of treatments needed varies by person and the condition being treated . Many chronic ailments are said to improve after 8 - 10 sessions .
Acupuncture is considered very safe , with little to no side effects . There may be some bruising or soreness at the site of the needle insertions following treatment . And people that take blood thinners or have a bleeding disorder should consult with their physician before trying acupuncture . It can be used effectively with other treatments , and , in fact , is suggested by the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health , to be used as a complementary therapy along with conventional medicine for serious illnesses .
To find a licensed practitioner , check out the website for the National Certification Commission in Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine . It is a requirement in most states that practitioners are licensed by this board . For more info , log on to www . nccaom . org .
William R . Forse , OD
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