You must have heard this a lot from your family and friends when you complain about your sore back – “Why don’t you try acupuncture?”, “I heard acupuncture transforms lives!”, “I know a cousin who does acupuncture with safety pins, you should give it a try!” (please don’t).
In this blog, we will understand what acupuncture is, how it can help you and what health conditions it is mostly associated with.
What is Acupuncture?
Around 3000 years ago, the Chinese discovered Acupuncture, a technique to treat various illnesses and to find and maintain the energy level balance of the human body. Acupuncture involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to unblock the flow of life-force energy -“Chi” or “Qi” in Chinese tradition (the “Life Force” in traditional Chinese medicine has nothing to do with Star Wars, in case you’re wondering).
The goal of acupuncture is to promote the body’s natural ability to heal itself by balancing energy, rather than directly healing physical wounds or mental conditions. If you think needles are too much for you, just know that Acupuncture was performed with sharpened stones back in 6000 BC. Such a relief isn’t it?
How Does Acupuncture Work Against Illness?
Acupuncture is often associated with maximising the flow of our body’s life-force energy. Traditional Chinese medicine explains that when needles are inserted into the pathways of “Chi” it regulates energy flow. However, modern practitioners would view acupuncture as a way to liven up your muscles, nerves and tissue to boost your body’s ability to fight pain naturally. Just make sure to do your research before you finalise your acupuncture practitioner. It requires experience and skill to know the intricacies of acupuncture and we at Niraa Wellness offer just that.
Health Conditions Treated By Acupuncture
Physical Pain
Have you ever had chronic pain that has been lasting for years? Acupuncture has been found effective for various painful conditions such as:
- Arthritis
- Back, Neck and Shoulder Pain
- Headache
- Migraine
- Joint Pain
- Accidental Injuries
- Face pain
- Nerval Uneasiness
- Dental Pain
Mental Treatments
Acupuncture has been extensively studied for treatment for mental treatments such as:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Insomnia
For Women
Acupuncture is said to work in favour of women with the below conditions as well:
- Menstrual Cramps
- Menopause
- Infertility
- Discomfort during Pregnancy
Others
Other health conditions that acupuncture is believed to help with include:
- Side-Effects of Treatments
- Low Immunity
- Bowel Problems
The Science Behind Acupuncture
Humans have almost found another planet with life, but the question of how acupuncture works is still a mystery. Modern infrastructure has shed some light on this matter and the main two theories are Neurological effects and Biochemical effects.
- Neurological Effect of Acupuncture: Stimulating acupuncture points activates peripheral nerves, instructing the brain to release endorphins and other chemicals to relieve pain.
- Biochemical Effect of Acupuncture: Acupuncture is believed to directly influence the levels of hormones that the human body produces. It is said to stimulate inflammatory cytokines which define how strong the immune system is.
Conclusion
The effectiveness of age-old therapeutic methods in the modern day is remarkably demonstrated by Acupuncture. With roots dating back thousands of years, this method’s ability to treat various illnesses has long captivated practitioners and patients alike. How it works is still unknown, but the real advantages it provides for so many people highlight its importance in modern medicine. Whether examined from the perspective of Western science or Eastern philosophy, acupuncture is a link between the past and the present, providing both healing and hope to those desperate for it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Acupuncture Cure Sciatica?
Sciatica is a condition that causes discomfort or agonising pain in the legs, lower back, hips and buttocks. Sciatica has been treated through acupuncture for a long time and it has proven to be effective for the majority of people with the condition, with an effectiveness rate of almost 90%.
Can Acupuncture Help With Hair Growth?
Professionals recommend at least 10-20 acupuncture sessions to see any progress for the hair growth treatment but it might take longer than that for any results to appear. Acupuncture has been extensively practised to restore the energy levels in the body for effective hair growth.
Are Acupuncture Mats Good For You?
Although the effects of acupuncture mats or acupressure mats have not been scientifically proven, individuals who purchased them have reported that they help with stress management and body pain including neck, lower back, and leg pain.
