What health conditions can acupuncture treat?
What Can Acupuncture Treat?
- Pain
- Cancer
- Allergies
- Headache & Migraine
- Smoking Cessation
- Anxiety & Depression
- Gynecologic Disorders
- Insomnia
- Digestive Disorders
What are the risks and benefits of acupuncture therapy?
These include:
- high and low blood pressure
- chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting
- some gastric conditions, including peptic ulcer
- painful periods
- dysentery
- allergic rhinitis
- facial pain
- morning sickness
- rheumatoid arthritis
- sprains
How to take care of yourself after an acupuncture treatment?
How to Take Care of Yourself After an Acupuncture Treatment
- Go light on exercise. A lot of people ask whether they can work out after acupuncture. ...
- Use heat. One of the most common questions I get from people who are going to acupuncture for pain relief is, "Should I use heat or ice?"
- Avoid alcohol and coffee. ...
- Turn off the TV. ...
- Eat good food. ...
What to expect after acupuncture?
Immediate Reactions After Acupuncture (the first 24-48 hours)
- Relaxation: You may feel deeply relaxed which lasts for hours or even for a day. ...
- Emotions: Some patients would become more emotionally sensitive for a short period of time. ...
- Pain Relief: Acupuncture is known for its instant pain relief. ...
- Elimination: Some patients experience detox symptoms like more urination after the acupuncture session. ...
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 happens in acupuncture treatment?
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.
What is acupuncture and how does it work?
Acupuncture seeks to restore the flow of positive energy throughout your body. It also claims to remove negative energy that is causing you pain. From a modern medical perspective, acupuncture stimulates various systems of your body. This may trigger a healing response.
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...
Does acupuncture really work?
Acupuncture has long been recognized as an effective treatment for chronic pain. In 2012, a study found acupuncture was better than no acupuncture or simulated acupuncture for the treatment of four chronic pain conditions: Back and neck pain.
What happens to your body after acupuncture?
What to Expect After Treatment: In general, people tend to feel relaxed after an acupuncture treatment. And the days following might even mean better sleep, digestion, and an overall sense of well-being. But some patients report having a deeper, more intense effect in the days following a session.
How long is acupuncture treatment?
How acupuncture is performed. An initial acupuncture session usually lasts 20 minutes to 1 hour and involves an assessment of your general health, medical history and a physical examination, followed by insertion of the acupuncture needles. Courses of treatment often involve several separate sessions, but this can vary ...
Can acupuncture damage nerves?
Even a disposable needle can break. Acupuncture needles rarely break 7, but they may damage a spinal nerve root 8 , 9 or a peripheral nerve 10.
Does acupuncture help nerve damage?
"It can also help with nerve regeneration and preservation. If there has been nerve damage or diminished sensation, we target treatment in these areas to re-stimulate those nerve fibers." Indeed, studies show that acupuncture is an effective treatment for peripheral neuropathy, with fewer side effects than medications.
What are risks of acupuncture?
Possible risks of acupuncture are the following:Bleeding, bruising, and soreness may occur at the insertion sites.Unsterilized needles may lead to infection.In rare cases, a needle may break and damage an internal organ.
What are the negative side effects of acupuncture?
Side effects may include:Pain and bleeding from the needle insertion.Nausea.Infections.Skin rash.Allergic reaction.Bruising around the area the needles were placed.Dizziness17.
How long does it take for acupuncture to work?
Acupuncture has a short term effect. The period of time you will feel its therapeutic benefits is around 3-4 days. If you are having it only and your problem isn't chronic, you can have it once a week.
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.
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 is the benefit of acupuncture?
Benefits. What to expect. Risks. Acupuncture is a form of treatment that involves inserting very thin needles through a person’s skin at specific points on the body, to various depths. Research suggests. Trusted Source. that it can help relieve pain, and it is used for a wide range of other complaints. However, according to the National Center ...
What is acupuncture point?
Some experts have used neuroscience to explain acupuncture. Acupuncture points are seen as places where nerves, muscles, and connective tissue can be stimulated. The stimulation increases blood flow, while at the same time triggering the activity of the body’s natural painkillers.
How much does acupuncture cost?
According to Costhelper Health, an acupuncture session and medical consultation will cost from $75 to $95, and a routine visit will cost between $50 and $70.
What side of the body do you lie down on for acupuncture?
The patient will be asked to lie down on their back, front, or one side, depending on where the needles are to be inserted. The acupuncturist should use single-use, disposable, sterile needles. As each needle is inserted, the patient may feel a very brief stinging or tingling sensation.
How many acupuncture points are there in the body?
Qi is said to flow through meridians, or pathways, in the human body. These meridiens and energy flows are accessible through 350 acupuncture points in the body.
What is the purpose of needles in acupuncture?
An acupuncurist will insert needles into a person’s body with the aim of balancing their energy. This, it is claimed, can help boost wellbeing and may cure some illnesses. Conditions it is used for include different kinds of pain, such as headaches, blood pressure problems, and whooping cough, among others.
How does Chinese medicine work?
How does it work? Traditional Chinese medicine explains that health is the result of a harmonious balance of the complementary extremes of “yin” and “yang” of the life force known as “qi,” pronounced “chi.”. Illness is said to be the consequence of an imbalance of the forces.
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 is acupuncture in Chinese medicine?
What Is Acupuncture? Acupuncture is a technique in which practitioners stimulate specific points on the body—most often by inserting thin needles through the skin. It is one of the practices used in traditional Chinese medicine. See the NCCIH Web site for more information on traditional Chinese medicine.
What is simulated acupuncture?
Many acupuncture trials rely on a technique called simulated acupuncture, which may use blunt-tipped retractable needles that touch the skin but do not penetrate (in real acupuncture, needles penetrate the skin). Researchers also may simulate acupuncture in other ways.
Why is acupuncture so challenging?
Studying acupuncture is challenging because: Clinical trials often differ in terms of technique, the number of acupuncture points, the number of sessions, and the duration of those sessions.
What is PubMed in medical terms?
A service of the National Library of Medicine, PubMed® contains publication information and (in most cases) brief summaries of articles from scientific and medical journals. For guidance from NCCIH on using PubMed, see How To Find Information About Complementary Health Approaches on PubMed.
Is acupuncture good for chronic pain?
Therefore, acupuncture appears to be a reasonable option for people with chronic pain to consider. However, clinical practice guidelines are inconsistent in recommendations about acupuncture. The effects of acupuncture on the brain and body and how best to measure them are only beginning to be understood.
Does acupuncture help with neck pain?
What the Science Says About the Effectiveness of Acupuncture. Results from a number of studies suggest that acupuncture may help ease types of pain that are often chronic such as low-back pain, neck pain, and osteoarthritis/knee pain. It also may help reduce the frequency of tension headaches and prevent migraine headaches.
Is acupuncture more helpful than acupuncture?
A 2012 analysis of data on participants in acupuncture studies looked at back and neck pain together and found that actual acupuncture was more helpful than either no acupuncture or simulated acupuncture.
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 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 .
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.
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.
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 .
Why do people use acupuncture?
Some people swear by acupuncture, citing it as a “miracle” to improving their quality of life because it’s said to be able to treat everything from depression and allergies to morning sickness and cramps.
What is the certification for acupuncture?
A licensed acupuncturist is required to pass the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM) exam or complete the NCCAOM program in the foundations of Oriental medicine, acupuncture, and biomedicine.
What is acupuncture needle?
Paul Kempisty, licensed acupuncturist with a MS in traditional Oriental medicine, explains, “ [Acupuncture is] a minimally invasive method to stimulate nerve-rich areas of the skin surface in order to influence tissues, gland, organs, and various functions of the body. ”. “Each acupuncture needle produces a tiny injury at the insertion site, ...
How long does acupuncture last?
The actual treatment portion of acupuncture may last around 30 minutes, though you don’t necessarily have needles in your skin for that long!
Does acupuncture help with cancer?
migraines. Trusted Source. morning sickness. sprains. strokes. Some studies even suggest that acupuncture can help with cancer treatment and multiple sclerosis, however research for these conditions is limited and requires larger studies to confirm the benefits.
Does acupuncture help with mental health?
Thus, acupuncture aims to assist people in achieving balance, or qi, and, as a result, provide relief for many ailments.
Is there a universal response to acupuncture?
In terms of results, it’s nearly impossible to say what one should expect, as everyone responds to and experiences acupuncture differently. “There is no universal response to acupuncture. Some people feel relaxed and may be a little tired, others feel energized and ready for anything,” Kempisty explains.
How does an acupuncturist work?
Your acupuncturist will evaluate your symptoms and select points for treatment. They’ll insert a needle at the treatment point and another needle nearby. Once the needles are inserted to the correct depth , your acupuncturi st will use electrodes to connect the needles to a special electroacupuncture machine.
What is the difference between acupuncture and electroacupuncture?
Electroacupuncture is similar to acupuncture, a widely practiced form of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). Acupuncture involves the use of thin needles to stimulate specific pressure points linked to unwanted symptoms. In standard acupuncture, one needle is used at each treatment point. Electroacupuncture is a modified form that uses two needles.
How does an electroacupuncture machine work?
After the electrodes are attached, they’ll turn on the machine. Electroacupuncture machines have adjustable current and voltage settings. Low voltages and frequencies will be used at first, though your acupuncturist may adjust the frequency and voltage of the current during treatment.
How long does it take for knee pain to go away after electroacupuncture?
In this study, those who received electroacupuncture treatment reported a significant reduction in knee pain just 24 hours after treatment. This effect lasts as long as four months after treatment.
What is the flow of energy in TCM?
In TCM, your health depends on the flow of qi (energy) in your body. This energy travels along invisible pathways, known as meridians. These are found throughout your body. Qi is believed to help keep your body in balance and promote its natural ability to heal itself.
Is electroacupuncture the same as acupuncture?
Electroacupuncture is closely related to acupuncture, but it involves stimulating two needles with an electrical current. Some believe that this enhances the healing properties of traditional acupuncture. There’s limited evidence to support the many claims made about electroacupuncture.
Does electroacupuncture help with vomiting?
The authors noted that electroacupuncture appeared to be more helpful for reducing vomiting right after a chemotherapy treatment than standard acu puncture.
What is acupuncture energy?
The belief is that your qi can be any manifestation of energy, and that acupuncture moves and activates your qi to help your body heal. Electroacupuncture is meant to connect your physical and spiritual self.
What are the benefits of electroacupuncture?
Electroacupuncture can be used as a part of your acupuncture treatment. It may help with conditions like: 1 Neurological diseases 2 Chronic pain 3 Muscle spasms 4 Paralysis#N#
Why is electroacupuncture shorter?
The treatments are also shorter because the electrodes can activate your acupuncture points more quickly. . A benefit of using electroacupuncture is that it can cover larger areas of your body than traditional acupuncture. This ability makes this type of acupuncture more accurate than others.
Is electroacupuncture a substitute for traditional acupuncture?
Electroacupuncture is a more modern form of acupuncture, and it has become a substitute for traditional acupuncture. . You may like this treatment if you're ready to experience a new level of acupuncture. Because electricity and needles are involved, you should understand the potential drawbacks of electroacupuncture.
Does electroacupuncture help with stem cells?
Studies have also found that electroacupuncture may help your body release mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) into your bloodstream. MSCs are adult stem cells mostly found in your bone marrow. MSCs help your body create different types of tissues. They also have healing properties. Pros of Electroacupuncture.
Can you use an electroacupuncture pacemaker while pregnant?
Epilepsy . Electroacupuncture is also not recommended if you use a pacemaker. . Talk with your doctor if you’re pregnant and thinking about electroacupuncture. They’ll help you decide if it’s safe for you and your baby. . In rare cases, you could experience adverse effects from electroacupuncture.
Can electroacupuncture cause low blood pressure?
The electrically charged needles have the risk of causing infections or organ, tissue, and nerve damage. Other risks include low blood pressure, called hypotension, fainting, and vomiting during or after treatment. The risk of negative effects is low.
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...
Why It's Done
- Acupuncture is used mainly to relieve discomfort associated with a variety of diseases and conditions, including: 1. Chemotherapy-induced and postoperative nausea and vomiting 2. Dental pain 3. Fibromyalgia 4. Headaches, including tension headaches and migraines 5. Labor pain 6. Lower back pain 7. Neck pain 8. Osteoarthritis 9. Menstrual cramps 10. Respiratory disorders, s…
Risks
- The risks of acupuncture are low if you have a competent, certified acupuncture practitioner using sterile needles. Common side effects include soreness and minor bleeding or bruising where the needles were inserted. Single-use, disposable needles are now the practice standard, so the risk of infection is minimal. Not everyone is a good candidate for acupuncture. Before having acupu…
What You Can Expect
- Each person who performs acupuncture has a unique style, often blending aspects of Eastern and Western approaches to medicine. 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: 1. The parts of your body that are painful 2. The shape, coating a…
Results
- The benefits of acupuncture are sometimes difficult to measure, but many people find it helpful as a means to control a variety of painful conditions. Several studies, however, indicate that some types of simulated acupuncture appear to work just as well as real acupuncture. There's also evidence that acupuncture works best in people who expect it to work. Acupuncture has few sid…
Clinical Trials
- Explore Mayo Clinic studiesof tests and procedures to help prevent, detect, treat or manage conditions.