About Acupuncture
Acupuncture works by stimulating the central nerve system (the brain and spinal cord) to release chemicals called neurotransmitters and hormones.
The Basics
Acupuncture is a form of Chinese medicine originating in ancient China over 3,000 years ago. It is a method of encouraging the body to promote natural healing and improve function.
This is done by inserting sterilized, stainless-steel needles into specific points located near or on the surface of the skin which can alter various biochemical and physiological conditions to treat a wide variety of illnesses.
Acupuncture points are areas of designated electrical sensitivity that have been shown to be effective in the treatment of specific health problems. They have been mapped out by the Chinese over a period of over 2000 years.
Qi - the foundation for oriental medicine is that there is a life energy flowing through the body which is called "qi" (pronounced chee). This energy flows through the body on channels known as meridians that connect all our major organs. According to Chinese medical theory, illness arises when the cyclical flow of qi in the meridians becomes unbalanced or is blocked.
How does acupuncture work?
In western view, acupuncture works by stimulating the central nerve system (the brain and spinal cord) to release chemicals called neurotransmitters and hormones.
These chemicals relieve pain, boost the immune system, and regulate various body functions.
Inserting needles at acu-points stimulates various sensory receptors that, in turn, stimulate nerves that transmit impulses to the hypothalamic-pituitary system at the base of the brain. The hypothalamus-pituitary glands are responsible for releasing neurotransmitters and endorphins, the body's natural pain-killing hormones. It is estimated that endorphins are 200 times more potent than morphine. Endorphins also play a big role in the functioning of the hormonal system. Therefore, acupuncture works well for back pain and arthritis and for P.M.S. and infertility. The substances released because of acupuncture not only relax the whole body, but they also regulate serotonin in the brain which plays a role in human and animal disposition. Therefore, depression is often treated with acupuncture. Some of the physiological effects observed throughout the body include increased circulation, decreased inflammation, relief from pain, relief of muscle spasms and increased t-cell count which stimulates the immune system.
Acupuncture advantages
Targeted:
At our clinic, acupuncture treatment is customized to your condition. It will address your specific psychological and physical symptoms.
Holistic:
You will notice the benefits not only specific to your condition, but also general health benefits, such as improved immunity, better sleep, better concentration, and improved memory.
No side effects: acupuncture activates your organism's own potential to achieve its curative effect. As a result, it does not produce adverse effects you are likely to experience when on antidepressants.
Not addictive:
Acupuncture will cause not the smallest sign of addiction. Furthermore, research has shown acupuncture to treat opiate and other addictive substance dependence. If you are on an addictive medication now, it will be easier to quit with the help of this time-tested powerful therapy.
Many different celebrities are also acupuncture fans including gold medal winning Olympian Rebecca Adlington who found acupuncture to be beneficial for an ongoing shoulder injury.