What is acupuncture?
An ancient Chinese medical procedure
to restore the body’s balance to heal itself, acupuncture is
the insertion of exceptionally narrow needles in a myriad of
strategic points on in the body.
Is acupuncture a medical fad?
On the contrary, acupuncture is not a
fad. Incepted thousands of years ago in China, acupuncture has
gained popularity over the last two decades. Although scientists
have not conclusively determined how acupuncture works, certain
studies demonstrate that it offers innumerous health benefits.
From reducing nausea caused by chemotherapy to from alleviating
pain, acupuncture represents many medical advantages.
What is entailed in acupuncture
therapy?
Generally, acupuncture treatment is administered
in an outpatient setting over a series of weekly or biweekly
therapies. Usually, up to 12 treatments is the norm. Each acupuncture
specialist or practitioner extends treatment according to his
or her style. The visits vary anywhere from 30 to 60 minutes.
Verisimilar to a regular physician visit,
the acupuncture appointment includes a complete examination
and a comprehensive assessment of the patient’s current health
condition. After the insertion of needles has been completed,
the acupuncture practitioner should offer a few self-care strategies.
How painful is the acupuncture treatment?
The acupuncture treatment is administered
with sterilized, individually wrapped stainless steel needles.
The acupuncturist uses the needles one time, only. Then the
needles are disposed. Upon insertion, a piercing sensation may
be experience for a brief moment.
Overall, the procedure is not excruciating.
Once the needle reaches the appropriate point, patients have
reported an intense sensation. Upon the final placement, the
needles are sometimes stimulated with heat or electricity or
gingerly moved.
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