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Acupuncture

THE Chinese art of acupuncture dates back over 2000 years.

Acupuncture was first introduced into Europe in the 17th Century, but up until the recent twentieth century, much of the world knew little about it, its origins and its capacity to promote and maintain good health.

One of the most important concepts of Chinese medicine is that of natural balance - yin and yang. When such a proper balance of forces exists, the body has achieved a healthy circulation of the life force qi (roughly pronounced "chee").

Qi is said to travel the body along channels called "meridians". Qi flows constantly up and down these pathways and when the flow of qi is insufficient, unbalanced, or interrupted, yin and yang become unbalanced and illness may occur.

An understanding of the relationship between the body, yin and yang, and qi is necessary to understand the utility of acupuncture.

Acupuncture involves the insertion of very fine needles into the skin (sometimes in combination with electrical stimulus or with heat produced by burning specific herbs, called Moxibustion) at specific points in order to influence the functioning of the body.

Traditionally, there are 365 acupoints on the body, most of which have a specific energetic function. Because the needles are so fine only a slight discomfort may be felt. Alternatively, the acupuncturist may apply pressure (acupressure) rather than inserting needles.

Acupuncture can be used to boost the body's natural healing energy in order to promote health and long life, or to treat specific physical and psychological illnesses or complaints.

Modern research shows that acupuncture can affect most of the body's systems - the nervous system, muscle tone, hormone outputs, circulation, antibody production and allergic responses, as well as the respiratory, digestive, urinary and reproductive systems.

Acupuncture also stimulates the nerves in skin and muscle and increases the body's release of natural painkiller - endorphin and serotonin.

Acupuncture can help to treat such conditions as:

Pain - including migraines, period pains, backache, trapped nerves, frozen shoulder and other kinds of arthritic and rheumatic pain. It can also be useful in relieving post-operative and post injury pain, such as following sports injuries.
Allergic reactions - such as asthma, hayfever and eczema
Depression - including stress and anxiety
Sinus problems - and chronic catarrh
Skin problems - such as mouth ulcers, dermatitis, pruitus (itching) and excessive sweating
Nausea and vomiting
Abdominal and bowel problems
Giving up smoking
Eating disorders and drug addiction
Insomnia
High blood pressure
Withdrawal from alcohol
Menstrual problems
Menopause
It is important to find an acupuncturist who is registered with either the British Medical Acupuncture Society, or the British Acupuncture Council.

Any needle if unsterilised can transmit diseases such as AIDS and Hepatitis. Many practitioners used sterilised disposable needles, but always check this out.