How does acupuncture WORK?
In traditional Chinese MEDICINE, HEALTH results form a harmonious balance between the complementary extremes of the life force. The traditional Chinese theory behind acupuncture MEDICAL treatment is very different from that of Western medicine. The meridians and the energy flow are accessible through more than 350 acupuncture points. Illness results from an imbalance of the forces. By inserting needles into these points in various combinations, acupuncture practitioners believe that your energy flow will rebalance.
In traditional Chinese MEDICINE, HEALTH results form a harmonious balance between the complementary extremes of the life force. The traditional Chinese theory behind acupuncture MEDICAL treatment is very different from that of Western medicine. The meridians and the energy flow are accessible through more than 350 acupuncture points. Illness results from an imbalance of the forces. By inserting needles into these points in various combinations, acupuncture practitioners believe that your energy flow will rebalance.
Many practitioners view the acupuncture points as places to stimulate nerves, muscles and connective tissue. This stimulation appears to boost the activity of your body's natural painkillers and increase blood flow.
Acupuncture has both BENEFITS and risks. Consider the benefits:
1. It has few side effects.
2. It can be useful as a complement to other treatment methods.
3. It helps control certain types of pain.
4. Acupuncture is safe when performed properly.
5. It's becoming more available in conventional medical settings.
6. It may be an alternative if you don't respond to or don't want to take pain medications.
The most common side effects of acupuncture are soreness, bleeding or bruising at the needle sites. Rarely, a needle may break or an internal organ might be injured. If needles are reused, infectious diseases may be transmitted. However, these risks are low in the hands of a competent, certified acupuncture practitioner.
