What is Acupuncture?
Human beings are complex bioelectric systems. This understanding has been the foundation of acupuncture practice for several thousand years. Qi (pronounced "Chee"), translated as "vital energy" or "life force," circulates throughout the body along well-defined pathways called meridians. Acupuncture points run along these meridians and are energetically connected to specific organs, body structures, and systems. If this energy circulation is disrupted, optimum functioning is affected and this tends to result in pain or illness. Acupuncture points are stimulated to balance the circulation of Qi, which influence the health of the entire being.
Acupuncture is one of the oldest, most commonly used systems of healing in the world. Originating in China some 3,500 years ago, only in the last three decades has it become popular in the United States.
Does Acupuncture Hurt?
Unlike hypodermic needles, acupuncture needles are solid and hair-thin, and they are not designed to cut the skin. They are also inserted to much more shallow levels than hypodermic needles, generally no more than a half-inch to an inch depending on the type of treatment being delivered.
While each person experiences acupuncture differently, most people feel only a minimal amount of discomfort as the needles are inserted. Some people reportedly feel a sensation of excitement, while others feel relaxed. Overall, a slight pinch or no sensation at all may be felt with needle insertion.
Is Acupuncture Safe?
Acupuncture is extremely safe. Properly administered, acupuncture does no harm. Because the treatment is drug-free, patients do not have to worry about taking several doses of a medication or suffering a possible adverse reaction.
However, there are certain conditions you should notify an acupuncturist about before undergoing treatment. If you have a pacemaker, for instance, you should not receive electroacupuncture due to the possibility of electromagnetic interference with the pacemaker. Similarly, if you have a tendency to bleed or bruise easily, or if you are a hemophiliac, a variety of other methods that do no include needle insertion cam be employed.
What Should I Expect on my First Visit?
A detailed history is needed before beginning treatment. Since traditional Chinese medicine takes a more holistic approach to patient care than Western medicine, you may be asked questions that appear unimportant (questions about your sleep habits, your ability to tolerate heat or cold, your dietary habits, etc.) but are actually vital to the type of care you will receive.
After reviewing your history, the practitioner will begin diagnosing your ailment. Depending on your condition, you may be subjected to an examination of the tongue as well as an examination of the pulse—major diagnostic techniques in traditional Chinese medicine. Using all of the information obtained during the history and diagnosis, the practitioner will then determine the cause of your symptoms. Depending on the condition, needles will be inserted into specific acupuncture points on the body. The use of a heat lamp or electrical stimulation may be needed to enhance acupuncture's therapeutic effect.
Depending on the seriousness and the length of your condition, your first visit may take between 60-90 minutes. It may take several visits of 60 minutes each visit to see significant improvement in your condition. As with any treatment plan, however, make sure that your questions are answered completely, and that the treatment plan seems viable and reasonable. If you don't understand a particular technique or type of treatment, make sure to ask.