Tuesday, October 15, 2013

Acupuncture: What is it and what does it do?

If you're new to acupuncture you undoubtedly have a few questions about it.

The most common question is "what does it do"?

That is a great question! Would you be surprised there are 2 different answers?

Usually, when someone asks me what acupuncture does, they're looking for an answer based in western anatomy and physiology. Which is expected due to the fact nearly all of us have been brought up within the western paradigm of health care.

The other explanation is rooted in the eastern philosophy of anatomy and physiology. A philosophy that shares a similar understanding of basic body function and then expands into a more complete realization of the body concerning the mental and physical relationships of a person's health.

Here's a brief explanation of the two:


Western:

The modern scientific explanation is that needling the acupuncture points stimulates the nervous system to release chemicals in the muscles, spinal cord, and brain. These chemicals will either change the experience of pain, or they will trigger the release of other chemicals and hormones which influence the body's own internal regulating system.

The improved energy and biochemical balance produced by acupuncture results in stimulating the body's natural healing abilities, and in promoting physical and emotional well-being. 1


Eastern:
 
The Eastern Explanation for how Acupuncture works is that the life energy flowing through the body which is termed Qi (pronounced chee) can be influenced and balanced by stimulating specific points on the body. These points are located along channels of energy known as meridians that connect all of our major organs. According to Chinese medical theory, illness arises when the cyclical flow of Qi in the meridians becomes unbalanced or is blocked. 2


The next question usually is "does it help with..."?

If you're having a heart attack, an acute respiratory problem or some other medical emergency requiring surgery, then the answer is NO! Call 911 or go to the nearest hospital immediately!

If it's not one of those, in my experience acupuncture is generally a great choice and will most likely help. To what extent will vary from person to person and you really won't know the full possibility of how much it can help until you try a recommended course of treatment by your acupuncturist.

If you would like to see a list of conditions that the World Health Organization has determined acupuncture to be effective in treating please CLICK HERE and this link will take you to the page.

If you have any other questions please feel free to contact me. Like the old adage says, the only stupid question is the one you don't ask.

Thanks for reading and have a healthy week!

Blake Blowers, Dipl. Ac.





2 https://www.acufinder.com/Acupuncture+Information/Detail/How+does+acupuncture+work+



No comments: