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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