What Is Acupuncture and How Does It Work?

Acupuncture is an ancient medical practice that has been used for over 3,000 years to help promote healing. The practice involves the insertion of thin, sterile needles into specific points on the body to stimulate the flow of energy or Qi. Acupuncture has only recently gained popularity in the West as a complementary therapy to conventional medicine. In this blog, we will explore what acupuncture is and how it works.

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What Is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture works with the principles of traditional Korean medicine, which sees the body as a series of connected energy pathways. In TCM, when Qi (energy) is blocked or unbalanced, it can cause physical, mental, and emotional problems, as well as disease. The goal of acupuncture is to restore the flow of Qi by inserting needles into specific points on the body along the meridians (energy pathways).

Acupuncture is a practice that uses thin, sterile needles that are inserted into the skin at specific points. The needles are left in place for up to 30 minutes, and the acupuncturist may manipulate them to improve the flow of Qi.

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How Does Acupuncture Work?

Acupuncture’s exact mechanism of action is unknown, but there are several theories as to how it works. The most widely accepted theories include :

• Neurotransmitter Regulation : Acupuncture has been shown to stimulate the release of various neurotransmitters, including endorphins, serotonin, and dopamine. These chemicals can help reduce pain, improve mood, and promote relaxation.
• Inflammation Reduction : Acupuncture has been shown to be an effective means of reducing inflammation in the body. This, in turn, can help alleviate pain and promote healing.
• Neural Signalling : Acupuncture may stimulate the nervous system, sending signals to the brain to reduce pain and promote healing. By stimulating specific points on the body, acupuncture can help send signals to the nervous system that promote healing and pain relief.
• Blood Flow Improvement : Acupuncture is known to help improve blood flow to the affected area. By improving blood flow, acupuncture can help promote healing and reduce pain.

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What Can Acupuncture Treat?

Acupuncture can be used to treat a wide range of conditions, including :

• Pain : If you’re looking for relief from chronic pain, including back pain, neck pain, and arthritis, acupuncture may be worth considering.
• Anxiety & Depression : Acupuncture has also been shown to help reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression.
• Insomnia : If you’re struggling with sleep quality or insomnia, acupuncture could help improve your sleep.
• Digestive disorders : Acupuncture may also be helpful in improving digestion and reducing symptoms of digestive disorders such as acidity, gas, constipation and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
• Infertility : Finally, acupuncture has been shown to be effective in aiding fertility in both men and women.

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Conclusion :

Acupuncture is a safe and effective complementary therapy that can be used to promote healing and improve overall health and well-being. While the mechanism of action is not fully understood, acupuncture has been shown to be effective in reducing pain, improving mood, and promoting relaxation. If you are interested in trying acupuncture, be sure to find a qualified and licensed acupuncturist to ensure that you receive safe and effective treatment.

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