Acupuncture
Acupuncture
is a means of adjusting the body's life energy (chi or qi)
through the insertion of fine needles into carefully selected
acupuncture points along the meridians of the body. The
needles, which have a rounded end rather than a sharp cutting
one, are inserted into the points and are then manipulated
with a gentle pumping action, by twirling or leaving in
place for a few minutes.
These
motions stimulate the flow of energy and remove blockages
so that the qi can be dispersed and regulated. When the
qi is flowing properly throughout the body, the balance
is restored and improved health results.
How
does it work?
Athough
many theories have been presented, there is still no easy
answer as to exactly how acupuncture works. The "Gate
Control" theory suggests
that pain impulses are blocked from reaching the spinal
cord or brain at various "gates" to these areas.
Since
a majority of acupuncture points are either located near,
or connected to neural structures, this suggests that acupuncture
stimulates the nervous system to "shut the gate"
to the sensation of pain. Other theories suggest that acupuncture
stimulates the body to produce narcotic like substances
such as endorphins and opiods which, when released into
the body, relieve pain. One thing is certain, although we
may not know precisely how it works, studies have shown
that it does work for a large majority of people and conditions.
Do
I have to believe in it for it to work?
The
answer to this question is no. While having a positive state
of mind helps with any type of treatment, conventional or
otherwise, it is not necessary to "believe" in
acupuncture for it to work. This is evidenced not only through
clinical study in "non-believers", but by the
fact that animals and small children who cannot be instructed
to "believe" receive relief through the use of
acupuncture.
For
more detailed information on acupuncture, please visit our
sister site: A
World of Acupuncture
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