Acupuncture is one of the “drug less therapies”, based on the philosophy of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and recognized by WHO, and is a treatment of choice for several chronic ailments.
It involves the inserting of very fine, pre-sterilised, one-time use disposable needles on acu-points skilfully by a qualified Doctor.
The “acu-points” are energy points located on the energy meridians, which are imaginary pathways through which the energy called Qi (pronounced as 'chee'), flows all over our bodies to maintain a state of homeostasis.
Qi is the vital energy or power that animates and supports the functions of the body and provides nourishment for the entire body. When Qi becomes 'blocked' or its supply starts to become inadequate or excess, the body and organ systems become 'stressed out' and our health starts to get compromised.
The Qi imbalances are determined by a thorough evaluation by a Doctor, along with Pulse & Tongue diagnosis. Even modern diagnostics are also taken into consideration.
By inserting the acupuncture needles on the acu-points and manipulating them, either manually or electrically, causes the energy flow to get normalised once again and there by eliminating the disease condition.
This means that, acupuncture treats not only the symptoms but also gets to the root of the disease and holistically addresses our body, breath, mind & intellect.
Typically everybody has some apprehensions regarding the pain while inserting the needles. However the extent of such pains depends on the skill of the doctor and the quality of needles used. Generally, the finer & sharper the needles, the lesser are the pains.
The science of Acupuncture requires a thorough knowledge of the human anatomy and physiology, the underlying pathology and an understanding of Chinese traditional philosophy, to effectively manage ailments.
Therefore I would like to recommend that all readers consult qualified & registered practitioners and to also check for the quality of needles used. Thereby the treatment sessions can be much more comfortable, leading to better recovery from your health problems.
There are a number of diseases which can be effectively managed by acupuncture therapy.
To mention a few:
- Cervical Spondylitis & Spondylosis
- Lumbar Spondylitis & Spondylosis
- Low back & Neck pain
- Sciatica
- Osteo-arthritis, Rheumatoid arthritis
- Migraine headaches
- Recurrent Stress Injuries (RSI)
- Post Herpetic Neuralgia
- Facial Palsy (Bell's Palsy),
- Trigeminal Neuralgia
- Anxiety & Depression disorders
- Insomnia & Sleep disorders
- Male & Female infertility problems
- Menstrual disorders
- Hypertension
- Stress & Pain management
- Side effects of Chemotherapy
Over the last 3 - 4 decades, the practice of Acupuncture has grown spectacularly in the Western world and a significant amount of research & development has been promoted & funded by the National Institute of Health (USA).
All the modern studies have indicated that Acupuncture therapy results in the release of neurotransmitters such as endorphins, which heal our body & mind. Recent studies on fMRI also have indicated that upon inserting needles on acu-points, several changes in the neurons of the brain are effected, which bring about a balance of our functions & emotions.