Acupuncture
Bone And Joint Health Articles > Acupuncture
Acupuncture originated in China many centuries ago and is today gaining popularity across the world. It is widely seen as a method of treating many ailments especially related to bone and joint health. Acupuncture as a therapeutic intervention is practiced all over the United States. An estimated 15 million Americans have undergone acupuncture, and about 5 million undergo the treatment each year.
Acupuncture involves the insertion of thin needles at specific points in the body known as acupoints which are primarily located along “meridians”. People often find the procedure almost painless, probably because the needles are extremely thin. The theory of acupuncture is based in part on the premise that there are 20 pathways of energy flow (known as meridians) composed of Qi throughout the body. This energy flow is required for good health and blockages in Qi lead to pain and ill health. According to practitioners, the use of acupuncture stimulates certain points in the energy channels, restoring a healthy flow and balance.
Acupressure is similar to acupuncture, but pressure is applied to the acupuncture sites instead of using needles.
Associations like the National Institute of Health have studied acupuncture and found that acupuncture is generally safe and in some cases effective. The scientific explanation for its efficacy has still not been established. Scientists believe it could be related to the release of endorphins (natural painkillers) resulting in pain relief as well as electromagnetic signals and blood flow to centers of the brain and the central nervous system related to sensation and involuntary body functions.
In the US, one of its most common uses is to relieve chronic pain especially of the bone and joint. The World Health Organization has recognized the efficacy of acupuncture treatments on bone and joint disorders like periarthritis humeroscapularis, tennis elbow, sciatica, low back pain, rheumatoid arthritis, tendonitis and neck pain. One well-documented advantage of acupuncture is its extremely low incidence of major especially when compared to conventional medical treatments.
Acupuncture therapy usually involves a series of weekly or biweekly treatments in an outpatient setting. A series of treatments (up to 12) is fairly common. Acupuncture practitioners, like medical doctors, each have their own individual style and way of structuring an office visit. But, in general, an acupuncture visit lasts about an hour.
While sufferers of bone and joint pain may decide to undergo an acupuncture treatment it is important that they keep their primary health care professional apprised. Regular medications should be continued – however the acupuncturist should be told about them. Also it is important to go to only a licensed acupuncturist.