How does acupuncture work?
Acupuncture treatment is rendered based on an Oriental medical diagnosis that includes an assessment of pulse quality, shape and color of the tongue, medical history and whole body evaluation. Following the diagnosis, acupuncture points are chosen on the body along acupuncture meridians, or pathways. Needle stimulation of these points increases the body’s healing energy or qi. The body has approximately one thousand acupuncture points. Qi circulates throughout the body within the meridians, which also are related to the internal organs. Qi surfaces to the skin level at specific points. Good health depends on the smooth flow of qi. When the flow of qi is blocked due to trauma, poor diet, medications, stress, hereditary conditions, environmental factors, or excessive emotional issues, the system is disrupted. Illness is then generated. In accordance with ancient theory, acupuncture allows qi to flow to areas where it is deficient and away from areas where it is in excess. In this way, ac
According to traditional Chinese Medicine theory, Acupuncture works by promoting the natural flow of Qi to organs and tissues to promote proper balance and functioning of those organs and tissues. From western scientific research, we understand that acupuncture influences a number of physiological functions such as release of natural pain killing body-chemicals by the brain, restoration of proper circulation in diseased areas and the stimulation of hormonal glands and immune system function. Research into the effects of acupuncture is still young, but already the result is encouraging enough to earn a place in modern medicine.
According to traditional Chinese medicine theory, acupuncture works by promoting the smooth flow of Qi to organs and tissues that in turn promotes proper balance and functioning of those tissues. From western scientific research, we now understand that acupuncture influences a number of physiological functions such as release of natural pain killing chemicals by the brain, restoration of proper circulation in diseased areas, stimulation of hormonal glands and immune system function, to name a few. Research into the effects of acupuncture is still young, so there is more being discovered every year that should continue to help us understand more completely how acupuncture works.
Modern Scientists are still trying to find an answer to this question that will satisfy them based on the medical model of the human body. In the Traditional Chinese Medicine model, Acupuncture influences the flow of Qi in the body, helping to regulate the function of the related organ system. For example, poor appetite and weak digestion may be due to the Spleen system being functionally sluggish. Acupuncture points known to stimulate and strengthen Spleen are needled, which then increases Spleen function and results in improved appetite and digestion. Another example is stress or anxiety due to stagnated Liver system function. Acupuncture points which help untangle and smooth the flow of Liver Qi are then needled, which helps to relieve stress or anxiety.
Modern Western medicine cannot completely explain how acupuncture works. Research has identified the ability of acupuncture to modulate neuroendocrine functions such as blood hormone levels, perhaps explaining some of this technique’s effectiveness. Traditional acupuncture is based on ancient Chinese theories of the flow of Qi (energy) through Meridians or pathways that span the body. According to such theory, acupuncture allows Qi to flow to areas where it is deficient and away from areas where it is in Excess. In this way, acupuncture regulates and restores the harmonious energetic balance of the body. Are the needles clean? Our practitioners are certified in the use of lean-needle technique” in acupuncture and we only use individually packaged disposable and sterilized steel needles. There is no risk of transmitting a communicable disease using such needles. Does acupuncture hurt? Although you may feel a sensation of heaviness, perhaps a slight cramping or distention around the need
