Acupuncture
In acupuncture therapy tiny needles are carefully inserted into points on your skin. This practice is an aspect of Chinese medicine often employed to alleviate pain and enhance overall well being especially in mitigating stress.
In the realm of medicine acupuncture is described as a method used to harmonize the natural flow of energy or life essence known as chi or qi (pronounced as "chee") which is thought to circulate through pathways called meridians within the bodys system. Practitioners of acupuncture believe that by inserting needles into points, along these meridians they can help restore and rebalance the energy flow, within your body.
In comparison, to this perspective held by practitioners is the idea that acupuncture points serve as locations for activating nerves and muscles as well as connecting tissues, within the body system in order to enhance the effectiveness of the body’s innate pain relieving mechanisms according to some beliefs.
Chemotherapy can sometimes lead to nausea. Vomiting, after surgery has been performed, which is known as nausea and vomiting (PONV).
Headaches come in forms, like tension headaches and migraines.
Respiratory issues, like rhinitis are quite common.
The chances of experiencing unwanted effects from acupuncture are minimized when administered by an certified practitioner using clean, single use dispopsable needles.
Typical reactions may involve discomfort or minor subdermal bleeding/bruising at the insertion points of the needles.
With the current norm being use needles the likelihood of infections is kept to a minimum.
However it's important to note that acupuncture may not be suitable, for everyone.
Before undergoing acupuncture therapy make sure to inform the practitioner if you have any of the following symptoms;
Having a pacemaker can pose challenges when considering acupuncture treatments that utilize pulses, on the needles as it might disrupt the normal functioning of the pacemaker. Please advise your practitioner before beginning a treatment.
There is a common myth that pregnant individuals may consider that certain acupuncture points have the potential to induce labor and possibly lead to a premature delivery of the baby - this was a previously held myth but has not been proven. Acupuncture can however help to induce a smooth delivery at the end of a pregnancy.
No specific steps are needed prior, to receiving acupuncture therapy other than filling out your forms clearly and comprehensively and arriving hydrated and well fed.
If you're thinking about trying acupuncture treatment simply follow the process you would for selecting a healthcare provider:
Ask your trusted circle, for suggestions and advice.
Ensure to verify the qualifications and training of the practitioner by checking their credentials. Many states mandate that acupuncturists who are not physicians must successfully complete an examination administered by the National Certification Commission, for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine.
Interview the healthcare provider to inquire about the treatment process including its effectiveness, for your condition and associated costs.
You can check to see if your insurance includes the cost of the therapy sessions. Insurance is complicated.
When discussing acupuncture, with your doctor inquire about the effectiveness of acupuncture for your condition, and their prior experience. Ask for a referral, to a qualified acupuncture specialist.
During an acupuncture session performed by your practitioner of medicine (TCM) ultra fine needles are delicately placed into precise locations, on your body to promote well being and balance within the body’s energy pathways known as meridians or channels.
Every individual practicing acupuncture brings a fingerprint of their own technique, bedside manner and expertise. Your acupuncturist may inquire about your symptoms and daily habits to tailor the treatment best suited for you based on several tried and true diagnostic parameters:
The appearance of your tongues surface and coloration.
The rate and quality of the pulse in your wrist.
Interview details that you share
An acupuncture appointment can last around an hour; however some sessions might be shorter, than that. This “norm” is usually dictated by insurance companies only being willing to reimburse practitioners in 15 minute intervals up to one hour maximum. Acupuncture appointments outside of that paradigm can be successful and useful in as much as 90+ minutes, or as few as 5.
For addressing an issue, a usual treatment schedule would consist of one or two sessions per week. The total number of sessions required varies based on the condition and its seriousness. Normally people tend to undergo an amount of treatment that is commensurate with the amount of time the condition has existed for. The “older” the “disease” is, the longer it may take to see results, and vice versa.
Acupuncture points are located throughout the body in regions, not necessarily at the site of discomfort you may be experiencing.
Your acupuncture provider will indicate the location for treatment and advise you regarding any clothing adjustments needed. A covering such as a gown or towel will be offered for your comfort as you recline onto a cushioned table, for the session.
During acupuncture sessions thin needles are inserted at points in your body to depths, for treatment purposes without causing much discomfort due, to their small size. Patients typically do not feel the insertion of these needles and may experience an ache when they reach the appropriate depth during the procedure. That ache should subside in a few seconds
Your acupuncturist might gently manipulate the needles once they're, in place or use heat and/or gentle electrical currents on them.
After receiving acupuncture therapy individuals may experience either a sense of relaxation and euphoria, being “blissed out” or heightened energy levels; however it's important to note that not everyone reacts the way, to this treatment method; if you don't notice any improvement in your symptoms within a few weeks of starting acupuncture sessions it might indicate that acupuncture is not the solution, for your specific needs, or that you may need more acupuncture treatment, more frequency, or more intensity of treatment.
Acupuncture’s advantages can be extremely obvious. The absence of pain is incredibly noticeable. If you’re not noticing change, inquire with your acupuncturist about what is a reasonable timeline to see change, and/or perhaps try a different acupuncturist to compare.
Every medicine, including acupuncture comes with side effects, but acupuncture is usually and extremely low risk, high reward intervention, and often times a viable alternative to surgery.
Thank you for reading!
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