Most people are surprised to find out that acupuncture is not painful. Acupuncture needles are very fine and are inserted gently into the skin with the use of a guide tube. Once the needles are inserted it is common to feel deeply relaxed. Acupuncture feels really good!
What Is Acupuncture
Acupuncture is a safe and non-toxic method for treating many illnesses and injuries, or to increase one’s physical and emotional well being. Very fine needles are used to generate energy movement at specific points on the body during a treatment. It is not uncommon to feel a tingling or warm sensation throughout the body, leading to a deep state of relaxation and meditative state of mind. Acupuncture energizes our own bodies’ ability to heal itself.
How does Acupuncture work?
Chinese medical theory maintains that the human body is a complex bio-energetic system. The pathways, through which our life energy flows, qi as it is called in Chinese medicine, are known as channels or meridians. If the flow or balance of qi is disrupted or damaged, pain, abnormal body functions or disease will ensue. Acupuncture works by stimulating the flow of energy at points along the meridians as prescribed for a specific treatment. By balancing and regulating the flow of qi, the body can then heal itself.
Although a great deal of research has been done, the exact mechanism by which acupuncture works has not been pinned down by western scientific method. One example is acupuncture’s effectiveness is pain relief, believed to be due to the triggering of the release of endorphins, a natural pain reducing substance within the body itself. Acupuncture has been proposed to also effect the release of specific hormones and neurotransmitters as well as other body regulating substances. Although unexplained, the benefits and results are well documented, from ancient times to present day. Acupuncture works!
Are there any side effects of Acupuncture?
The main side effect of acupuncture is a deep state of calm and relaxation. You may feel a warm or tingling sensation throughout your body. Though it is rare, a hematoma or a bruise may appear at the needled site.