My Story"Acupuncture is the insertion of fine needles into the body at specific points shown as effective in the treatment of specific health problems. These points have been mapped by the Chinese over a period of two thousand years. Recently, electromagnetic research has confirmed their locations. The World Health Organization has said that acupuncture is suitable for treating the following; Ear, Nose, and Throat Disorders; Gastrointestinal Disorders; Eye Disorders; and Nervous System and Muscular Disorders. The location and depth of the needles depend on the nature of the problem, the patient's size, age, and constitution, and upon the acupuncturist's style or school. Usually, needles are inserted from 1/4 to 1 inch in depth.
How does acupuncture work? Modern Western medicine cannot explain how acupuncture works. Traditional acupuncture is based on ancient Chinese theories of the flow of Qi (energy) and Xue (blood) through distinct meridians or pathways that cover the body somewhat like the nerves and blood vessels do. According to the ancient theory, acupuncture allows Qi to flow to areas where it is Deficient and away from where it is Excess. In this way, acupuncture regulates and restores the harmonious energetic balance of the body.
There are many different styles of acupuncture since it has spread to Korea, Japan, Vietnam Europe, the British Isles, and America. Although acupuncture originated in China the different countries it spread to developed different styles and opinions as to theory and technique."
--Information from American Society of Acupuncturists
For the past 2 months, I have been seeing an acupuncturist. Chinese medicine has been around for centuries. It started out just as something to do to appease my parents as they were worried about my sinuses. Each session is very relaxing and I enjoy talking with my acupuncturist. I was shocked the first time I went, and scared, but the needles did not hurt. When I left the office I was amazed when I looked at the time. I could not believe I had been there for an hour. The next session the same thing. I soon realized that each time I go, I receive a full hour of service, unlike when I see my primary care provider.
Each session my acupuncturist works different areas that help relieve specific problems. At the end of each session, my acupuncturist puts seeds in my ears. As it turns out the ear has various points in it, when those points are stimulated when pressure is applied. The pressure points in the ear reflect various functions of the body. In talking with others who have gone to acupuncturist, when choosing an acupuncturist choose someone that you feel comfortable with. Personally, I have found that original Chinese Acupuncturist are the best and many also have herbs right in their place of business. So, even if you are afraid of needles you can go see your acupuncturist and ask them about the seed herb for your ears.
When something have been around for centuries, who are we to say it does not work? Something has to work and who knows it might even be better for you then western medicine and all the chemicals that are in our medicine.
For more information you can check out these sites:
- www.medicalacupuncture.org -- American Academy of Medical Acupuncture Homepage
- www.aava.org -- The American Academy of Veterinary Acupuncture
- www.acupuncture.com -- Acupuncture.com Resource for Patients, Practitioners, and Students
- www.taoofwellness.com -- Tao of Wellness: Traditional Chinese Medicine (cool pictures of needles in a person and exercises for back pain)
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