Acupuncture is a treatment method where thin needles are inserted into specific sections of the skin at varying depths with the goal of relieving pain and assisting in easing symptoms associated with specific conditions.
Scientists have not been able to prove exactly how acupuncture works, but it is believed that it works through neurological effects or by helping to balance vital energy.
Either way, it has for years remained a controversial topic among western scientists and doctors.
What Is Acupuncture?
Acupuncturists will normally insert numerous needles into your body with the sole purpose of helping you balance your energy. According to its proponents, the insertion of needles helps to cure various illnesses and boost a person’s overall well being.
Among many others, some conditions it can help treat include:
- Whooping cough
- Blood pressure problems
- Headaches
How Does It Work?
Traditional Chinese medical practitioners believe health arises from the presence of a harmonious balance between two complementary extremes: “yang” and “ying”. They believe illness arises when there lacks a balance between the life forces known as “qi” (generally pronounced as “chi”).
Qi is a life force said to flow through pathways and meridians present in our bodies. An acupuncturist can access the energy flows and the meridians through 350 points located throughout the body. By inserting the needles into the three hundred and fifty points, the acupuncturist is able to restore proper energy balance.
It is important to note that there is no scientific evidence supporting the theory that meridians actually exist, and it is not possible to prove whether they do or don’t, however various studies have suggested that the technique does, in fact, work for several conditions.
Some experts have attempted to use neuroscience to explain this technique. Based on their explanation, the points are places where connective tissues, muscles, and the nerve can easily be stimulated. Once stimulated, the blood flow in the body starts to increase while triggering the activity associated with the natural painkillers in the body.
What Are Its Uses?
Research undertaken by German scientists has indicated that this technique can assist in relieving migraines and tension headaches. According to the NCCIH, studies have proven that it can help with:
- Lower back pain
- Osteoarthritis
- Migraines and headaches
- Knee pain
- Neck pain
The World Health Organization (WHO) conducted a study in 2003, where they found that this technique can also help with conditions such as:
- Facial pain
- Vomiting and nausea induced by chemotherapy
- Painful menstrual cycles
- Dysentery
- Dental pain
- Inducing labor
The organization suggested that the technique could be used to treat certain infections such as hemorrhagic fever and urinary tract infections.