Does it work ?
Aussies have been hearing for decades that acupuncture is a miracle cure for all our muscular aches and pains. Consequently most people aren’t really sure what to believe. But is it just fear of the unknown or does it actually work ? Acupuncture certainly can’t fix every ailment known to humanity but according to well respected sources, this traditional Chinese therapy has made a huge impact on modern medicine. Therefore, something must be working.
How is Needling performed ?
An acupuncture specialist will use pre sterilised needles and apply them to specific points on the body. There are literally hundreds of acupuncture points on the human body.
Firstly, acupuncturists are trained to know where the relevant points are and what combination of points will provide the most relief for your specific injury or sensitivity. Therefore, acupuncturists apply the treatment for maximum pain relief in the shortest time possible. During your treatment you will then wait a a short time for the body to respond. Subsequently, the acupuncture specialist consults with you to ask you how well your symptoms are improving. During the treatment you will either be sitting in a chair or lying down, depending on the location of the treatment.
Do treatments hurt ?
To clarify, acupuncture needles are very thin and most people don’t feel them at all or only a little. If you want to give it a try, the important thing is to make sure to go to a properly licensed acupuncture specialist with a lot of experience or ask around to see who is recommended by people you have confidence in. Certainly, many Australian specialists also practice alternative forms of therapy for those who do not want needles. These alternatives are listed at the John Hopkins university website.
Non needling remedies which may be applied to specific points on the body include :
- Heat ( moxibustion )
- Pressure ( acupressure )
- Friction
- Suction (cupping)
- Impulses of electromagnetic energy
Worldwide research
The US National Institute of Health have published some comprehensive information about acupuncture.
- The research includes specific guidance andbenefits for :
- Low back pain
- Neck pain
- Osteo and Knee pain
- Headache
- Other conditions
Globally respected John Hopkins University and research organisation expands on acupuncture by including non needling forms of stimulation and a host of additional therapies and benefits.
- Potential benefits are listed as including the above as well as
- Feeling unwell after surgery or dentistry
- Addiction
- Menstrual cramps
- Tennis elbow
- Fibromyalgia
- Myofascial pain
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Asthma
Additional research is easy to find with a web search including from Victoria Health, Queensland Health, British NHA and independent organisations referenced in this article.