Resources
History | Benefits | Oriental Medicine News | Scientific Research | Acupuncture Regulation
A Very Brief History of Acupuncture
Acupuncture originated in China over 3,000 years ago. Its premise is that we have the power to heal ourselves. That power comes from the energy that circulates within us. Just like blood, bio-electric energy moves throughout our bodies. When our energy is off balance, then symptoms occur. But our bodies can also show signs of imbalance even before symptoms start. These signs can appear as changes on the skin, at pressure points, in the pulse, or on the tongue.
An acupuncturist’s job is to evaluate your signs and symptoms, and then to balance your energy accordingly. Acupuncture not only promotes healing but also helps maintain health and well-being.
Acupuncture spread from China to all parts of the world. It is effective for many conditions because it helps us adapt to the stress that causes disease.
We’re stressed not only by what’s on our minds but also from overwork, injury, pollution, poor diet, and unhealthy lifestyles. All of these act as triggers that set of symptoms that range from subtle to disturbing to down-right puzzling. Acupuncture sorts out the puzzle so that we can once again find peace and balance.
Conditions treated with acupuncture:
• Pain
• Stress
• Infertility
• Headaches
• Digestive disorders
• Health challenges
These conditions are treated with the painless insertion of tiny acupuncture needles. Acupuncture is painless. However, some styles of acupuncture produce a stronger sensation than others. If it hurts, let the clinician know and she will remove the needle (and, if necessary, insert a new one).
Thin stainless-steel needles are used to stimulate acupuncture points. The needles are sterilized and designed for single-use to ensure that treatments are safe and hygienic.
Although it is not yet mainstream medicine, acupuncture is based on the theory that energy circulates throughout our bodies. This energy flows through specific pathways that are called meridians, or channels.
A healthy flow of energy through our acupuncture channels allows each of our cells to communicate with the rest of our body. This ensures that our body functions as a well-coordinated system of organs, tissues, muscles, tendons, bones, etc.
Acupuncture Balances Qi
Symptoms occur when the circulation of energy is blocked anywhere along our acupuncture channels. This blockage is called Qi stagnation.
Qi (pronounced chee) is a Chinese term used to describe energy. While acupuncture works specifically with the Qi of the human body (and some animals), Qi also exists outside of the body, such as the energy found in nature.
Acupuncture balances the flow of Qi by stimulating points along our energy channels, which not only treats disease but also prevents its onset.
Acupuncture Works Over Time
Each acupuncture treatment is a stepping stone towards better health. The frequency and duration of acupuncture treatment varies depending on the type and severity of the condition being treated. On average, significant results are seen after 4-6 consecutive treatments. Chronic conditions may require a long-term program of regular acupuncture sessions.
Acupuncture Promotes Health & Longevity
The best medical treatments do not treat disease but rather prevent it. Acupuncture excels in preventive medicine. So even in the absence of disease, acupuncture remains a valuable therapy for promoting health and longevity.
Oriental Medicine News
Acupuncture Today is a monthly periodical with current news on acupuncture and Asian medicine.
The American Association of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (AAAOM) promotes excellence and integrity in the professional practice of acupuncture and Oriental medicine, in order to enhance public health and well-being.
Scientific Research
Acupuncture in Medicine is a scientific and clinical journal that uses the prevailing understanding of neurophysiology and anatomy to interpret the effects of acupuncture.
The Society for Acupuncture Research (SAR) promotes scientific inquiry into Oriental medicine systems, which include acupuncture, herbal therapy and other modalities.
Acupuncture Regulation
The Acupuncture Board of California benefits, educates and protects the public through regulation of acupuncture licensure.
“A Consumers Guide to Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine [PDF],” published by the Department of Consumer Affairs.