what do you call treatment with acupuncture

Used for thousands of years in China, acupressure applies the same principles as acupuncture

to promote relaxation and wellness and to treat disease. Sometimes called pressure acupuncture, Acupressure is often thought of as simply acupuncture without the needles. But what exactly is acupressure and how does it work?

Full Answer

What is acupuncture and acupuncture treatment?

Acupuncture is a treatment that uses very thin steel needles inserted into the skin to stimulate specific points in the body. The goal is to relieve a health condition or symptom, such as pain.

What is the abbreviation for acupuncture?

Organizational Titles Abbreviation Organization AAMA American Academy of Medical Acupuncture AAOM American Association of Oriental Medicin ... ACAOM Accreditation Commission for Acupuncture ... AOBTA American Organization for Bodywork Thera ... 9 more rows ...

What do you call a professional acupuncturist?

Professional Titles Abbreviation Title ASA American Society of Acupuncturists CA, CAc Certified Acupuncturist CH Chinese Herbalist CT Clinical Technician 26 more rows ...

Can I use acupuncture along with other treatments?

In most cases, people use acupuncture along with other treatments. For example, someone with chronic pain will likely take medications and also get acupuncture. Someone with cancer would still receive cancer treatment but also use acupuncture. You should continue taking your prescribed medications, no matter how good acupuncture makes you feel.

What type of treatment is acupuncture?

Acupuncture involves the insertion of very thin needles through your skin at strategic points on your body. A key component of traditional Chinese medicine, acupuncture is most commonly used to treat pain. Increasingly, it is being used for overall wellness, including stress management.

What is acupuncture medical term?

Listen to pronunciation. (AK-yoo-PUNK-cher) The technique of inserting thin needles through the skin at specific points on the body to control pain and other symptoms. It is a type of complementary and alternative medicine.

Is acupuncture considered therapy?

Acupuncture is a form of complementary therapy that involves inserting very thin needles into the body. Practitioners insert needles at different locations and depths to treat different health issues. Acupuncture can help relieve pain and treat a range of other complaints.

What do you call acupressure treatment?

Acupuncture is a treatment derived from ancient Chinese medicine.

Is acupuncture and dry needling the same?

Both methods use fine filament needles gently inserted into strategic locations in the body. The fundamental difference between these techniques is that dry needling is based on human anatomy and the neurophysiological principles, while traditional acupuncture is based on traditional chinese medicine.

What is acupuncture called in Chinese?

Acupuncture is most often used to attempt pain relief, though acupuncturists say that it can also be used for a wide range of other conditions....AcupunctureSimplified Chinese针灸Literal meaning"needling [and] moxibustion"4 more rows

Is a doctor of acupuncture a real doctor?

Becoming a licensed acupuncturist does not make you a doctor, medical or otherwise. You are certified and licensed to practice Oriental medicine which utilizes many healing techniques, including acupuncture.

What are 3 benefits of acupuncture?

Top 10 Benefits of Acupuncture for Workplace Stress and PainReduced Back Pain, Neck Tension and Relieve Joint Pain in the Hands and Arms. ... Relief from Headaches. ... Reduced Eye Strain. ... Improved Immune System and Reduced Sick Days. ... Enhanced Mental Clarity and Increased Energy. ... Relief from Digestive Conditions. ... Allergy Relief.More items...

What is alternative medicine?

Alternative medicine is a term that describes medical treatments that are used instead of traditional (mainstream) therapies. Some people also refer to it as “integrative,” or “complementary” medicine. More than half of adults in the United States say they use some form of alternative medicine.

What is Shiatsu therapy?

Shiatsu is a non invasive therapy originating from Japan. It uses a combination of kneading, pressing, tapping and stretching techniques. These gentle techniques aim to reduce tension and re energise the body. Summary. Shiatsu works with the body's energy flow, known as Ki or Qi (pronounced chee).

What is pressure point massage called?

Shiatsu is a Japanese form of acupressure. Traditional Chinese medical theory describes special acupoints, or acupressure points, that lie along meridians, or channels, in your body. These are the same energy meridians and acupoints as those targeted with acupuncture.

What is the difference between acupuncture and acupressure?

Unlike acupressure, acupuncture can only be performed by a trained specialist: an acupuncturist. In acupressure, physical pressure is applied to acupuncture points. Virtually anyone, who has read a handbook, can perform acupressure. You can even perform acupressure on yourself.

How to determine acupuncture treatment?

To determine the type of acupuncture treatment that will help you the most, your practitioner may ask you about your symptoms, behaviors and lifestyle. He or she may also closely examine: The parts of your body that are painful. The shape, coating and color of your tongue. The color of your face.

Why do people do acupuncture?

Why it's done. Acupuncture is used mainly to relieve discomfort associated with a variety of diseases and conditions, including: Chemotherapy-induced and postoperative nausea and vomiting. Dental pain. Headaches, including tension headaches and migraines. Labor pain . Low back pain. Neck pain. Osteoarthritis.

How to become a non-physician acupuncturist?

Most states require that nonphysician acupuncturists pass an exam conducted by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine. Interview the practitioner.

Why do people use acupuncture?

Some people use acupuncture to promote fertility. It is also used to quit smoking and as a component of the treatment for other addictions. Cosmetic acupuncture, also known as facial acupuncture, is used to improve the appearance of skin.

What is laser acupuncture?

Laser acupuncture: This method is said to stimulate acupuncture points without the use of needles. Ear acupuncture, also known as auricular acupuncture, is sometimes used during the treatment for weight loss, 2  smoking cessation, addictions, 3  and anxiety.

Why do acupuncture needles work?

Acupuncturists insert hair-thin needles to specific acupuncture points throughout the body to restore the flow of qi, balance the body’s energy, stimulate healing, and promote relaxation.

How many needles are used in acupuncture?

Typically, acupuncture will use anywhere from six to more than 20 tiny need les per treatment (the number of needles doesn't indicate the intensity of the treatment). The needles are often left in for 10 to 20 minutes. The acupuncturist may gently twist the needles for added effect.

How long does acupuncture help with knee pain?

An analysis of previously published studies found that acupuncture improved physical function in the short and long term in people with chronic knee pain due to osteoarthritis, but it appeared to provide only short-term (up to 13 weeks) relief of pain.

How does acupuncture work?

One theory is that acupuncture works by stimulating the release of endorphins, the body's natural pain-relieving chemicals. 1 .

What is the role of acupuncture in the body?

Acupuncture is also said to influence the autonomic nervous system (which controls bodily functions) and the release of chemicals that regulate blood flow and pressure, reduce inflammation, and calm the brain. 1 .

What are some treatments that complement acupuncture?

Acupuncturists sometimes perform other types of treatment to complement acupuncture. These include acupressure, cupping and massage. If you’ve been thinking of switching to a healing career, contact us for more information.

How to determine the best acupuncture treatment for you?

In order to determine the most effective type of acupuncture treatment for you, your acupuncturist might need to examine certain physical conditions. This might include checking your pulse or checking for tension in parts of your body.

How many sessions of acupuncture are needed?

When acupuncture needles enter your skin, you’re not likely to feel anything other than slight pressure. 2. It Usually Requires Multiple Sessions. While acupuncture is an effective form of pain relief, it usually takes more than one treatment to provide long-term results.

What is the best treatment for pain?

Acupuncture has been used for treating a wide range of health problems for centuries. This type of alternative treatment, which is based on traditional Chinese medicine, can help reduce pain and other symptoms through the skilled use of thin needles.

How often do you use needles for acupuncture?

Needles Are Only Used Once. If you’re worried about needles being used on other clients, keep in mind that acupuncturists are required to dispose of used needles and use brand new ones for each treatment. 5. Loose Clothing is Recommended.

Does acupuncture help with pain?

6. It Helps Multiple Health Problems. Acupuncture is usually associated with pain relief, but it can also be used for many other health issues. These include digestive trouble, allergies, anxiety and menstrual problems. 7.

Is acupuncture a spiritual or religious treatment?

Acupuncture is not a form of spiritual or religious treatment. It is based on principles of ancient Chinese medicine that have proven to be effective for centuries. 10. Other Types of Treatment are Sometimes Included. Acupuncturists sometimes perform other types of treatment to complement acupuncture.

What are the benefits of acupuncture?

National Institutes of Health (NIH) studies have shown that acupuncture is an effective treatment alone or in combination with conventional therapies to treat the following: 1 Nausea caused by surgical anesthesia and cancer chemotherapy 2 Dental pain after surgery 3 Addiction 4 Headaches 5 Menstrual cramps 6 Tennis elbow 7 Fibromyalgia 8 Myofascial pain 9 Osteoarthritis 10 Low back pain 11 Carpal tunnel syndrome 12 Asthma

What is the purpose of acupuncture points?

Acupuncture points are believed to stimulate the central nervous system. This, in turn, releases chemicals into the muscles, spinal cord, and brain. These biochemical changes may stimulate the body's natural healing abilities and promote physical and emotional well-being.

Why is acupuncture controversial?

Because scientific studies have not fully explained how acupuncture works within the framework of Western medicine, acupuncture remains a source of controversy. It is important to take precautions when deciding about acupuncture.

How many acupuncture points are there in the human body?

Acupuncture is part of the ancient practice of Traditional Chinese medicine. Traditional Chinese medicine practitioners believe the human body has more than 2,000 acupuncture points connected by pathways or meridians. These pathways create an energy flow (Qi, pronounced "chee") through the body that is responsible for overall health.

What to look for in acupuncture?

1. Top Things to Look For. Find a provider who: Is board certified in their specialty and licensed if required by your state. Has experience using acupuncture to treat patients with your specific condition. Accepts your insurance. You are comfortable talking with and who fully answers your questions. 2.

What is a naturopath?

Naturopaths specialize in naturopathy or naturopathic medicine—a form of alternative medicine based on the healing power of nature and the human body. Nurse practitioners practice a mix of nursing and medicine, often in collaboration with a doctor.

Can a physician assistant do acupuncture?

Physician assistants practice medicine under the supervision of a doctor. Any of these types of providers can perform acupuncture if your state allows it. Your job is to find the one who best meets your needs. Use these five steps to find the best provider for you. 1.

Can you use acupuncture as a substitute for medical advice?

It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Never ignore professional medical advice in seeking treatment because of something you have read on the site. If you think you may have a medical emergency, immediately call your doctor or dial 911. Introducing Acupuncture to Your Practice.

Does insurance cover acupuncture?

Your insurance coverage is a practical matter. And it may or may not cover acupuncture. If it does, you may need to choose a provider that participates in your plan. This will help you receive the most insurance benefits and pay the least out-of-pocket for your care.

Does acupuncture require certification?

The states regulate the practice of acupuncture and each state has its own laws. Most states require certification through NCCAOM (National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine). Some don’t require certification, but limit the practice to certain medical providers. So first, you need to know who can legally perform ...

What are some common problems that can be treated with acupuncture?

For example; arthritis, back, neck, knee and shoulder pain, carpal tunnel syndrome and sciatica.

How often should I see an acupuncturist?

Acupuncture is also often used as a preventative medicine. Many people see their acupuncturist only 2-4 times a year for a "tune up" or "balancing" treatment. This can prevent disease and promote health, energy and vitality.

What is traditional Chinese medicine?

Traditional Chinese Medicine is a complete medical system that is capable of diagnosing and successfully treating a wide range of conditions including: (This is by no means a complete list of what Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine can treat.) Eye, Ear, Nose, Throat Disorders. Sinusitis. Sore Throat.

Is Chinese medicine a last resort?

Many people try Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine as a "last resort" to serious and complex medical problems and find that it can help them when other treatments could not.

Is acupuncture commonplace?

Yeah, acupuncture is getting more and more commonplace nowadays (even Amy’s grandpa had acupuncture for a painful hip almost 20 years ago), but it’s still a pretty new thing for many, many people here in the United States.

Can you lie back after acupuncture?

Please know that if any of the needles feel painful or uncomfortable, let your acupuncturist know right away and they’ll take it out and re-do it. There’s no reason that you should feel any discomfort in your treatment. Once you’re all set, you can lie back and relax.

What is acupressure used for?

Used for thousands of years in China, acupressure applies the same principles as acupuncture to promote relaxation and wellness and to treat disease. Sometimes called pressure acupuncture, Acupressure is often thought of as simply acupuncture without the needles. But what exactly is acupressure and how does it work?

What are the points of acupuncture?

There are literally hundreds of acupuncture points on the body -- too many to name. Here are three that are commonly used by acupuncturists and acupressure practitioners: 1 Large intestine 4 (LI 4): This is in the soft, fleshy web between your thumb and forefinger. 2 Liver 3 (LR-3): Located on the top of your foot up from the space between your big toe and next toe. 3 Spleen 6 (SP-6): This is about three finger widths above your inner anklebone.

How long does acupressure last?

The practitioner gently presses on acupressure points on your body. A session typically lasts about one hour.

What is the goal of acupressure?

The goal of acupressure or other types of Asian bodywork is to restore health and balanceto the body's channels of energy and to regulate opposing forces of yin (negative energy) and yang (positive energy).

Is acupressure safe for arthritis?

In general, acupressure is very safe. If you have cancer, arthritis, heart disease, or a chronic condition, be sure to have a discussion with your doctor before trying any therapythat involves moving joints and muscles, such as acupressure.

Can acupressure be avoided?

Deep tissue work such as acupressure may need to be avoided if any of the following conditions apply: The treatment is in the area of a cancerous tumor or if the cancerhas spread to bones. You have rheumatoid arthritis, a spinal injury, or a bonedisease that could be made worse by physical manipulation.

Does acupressure help with nausea?

In addition to relieving nausea right after chemotherapy, there are individual reports that acupressure also helps reduce stress, improve energy levels, relieve pain, and lessen other symptoms of canceror its treatments.

Overview

• Acupuncture involves the insertion of very thin needles through your skin at strategic points on your body. A key component of traditional Chinese medicine, acupuncture is most commonly used to treat pain. Increasingly, it is being used for overall wellness, including stress management. Traditional Chinese medicine explains acupuncture as a techniq...

See more on mayoclinic.org

Why It's Done

Risks

What You Can Expect

Results

Clinical Trials