Understand a little more about the alternative medicine that has helped control the pain of thousands of people.
In addition to traditional medicine, there are several alternative therapies that can help cure various diseases. In this context, one of those that usually have more positive points is acupuncture. Although many people only associate the practice with treating stress symptoms, it can be beneficial in the treatment of many ailments. The benefits can be even more felt when combined with other more “conventional” treatments. Next, you’ll learn more about acupuncture and how it helps treat ailments. Come with us to read!
What is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is a therapeutic practice that is part of oriental culture. It consists of inserting fine needles into specific points on the body, called acupuncture points, with the aim of stimulating the flow of energy and restoring balance to the body. The theory behind acupuncture is based on the belief that life energy, known as “Qi,” flows within the body in channels called “meridians.” So when Qi is out of balance or blocked, it can lead to pain and disease. By stimulating acupuncture points, the practice helps restore energy flow and balance to the body, which can lead to reduced pain, increased blood circulation, improved immune function, and promoted an overall state of well-being. .
How does acupuncture work?
In an acupuncture session, the therapist will first evaluate the patient’s medical history and health status. This will help you determine which acupuncture points are best suited for treatment. Then the patient is asked to lie down on a comfortable stretcher. The therapist then cleanses the area around the acupuncture points with alcohol and then inserts fine sterile needles into specific points on the body as determined by the previous assessment. The needles are left in place for approximately 15 to 30 minutes, during which time the patient may feel sensations of warmth, tingling, or light pressure. During the session, the therapist may apply other techniques, such as massage or moxibustion (which is the heating of acupuncture points by burning medicinal herbs), to complement the acupuncture treatment. At the end of the session, the therapist removes the needles and may recommend certain lifestyle changes to the patient, such as changes in diet, exercise, or meditation practices. It is important to note that acupuncture is a safe and effective practice when performed by a qualified practitioner with experience in the field.
What diseases can be treated with acupuncture?
Acupuncture can be useful to be used as a therapeutic technique in support of health treatments. That said, here are the main conditions where acupuncture can be helpful:
- Anxiety;
- Depression;
- Chronic diseases;
- Pain in the neck, head;
- Insomnia;
- Allergies.
Like these, there are other conditions that can be treated with the use of acupuncture. However, despite being an ancient technique, it shouldn’t replace traditional medical treatments. For those wishing to begin acupuncture as a therapy combined with a treatment, it is necessary to seek professionals qualified to perform the technique. A poorly skilled person can also be the cause of greater pain, for example.
Are there different types of acupuncture?
Within the principle of acupuncture, there are several segments that work for the benefit of the patient and which can be applied in different ways. Learn about the main types of acupuncture and their indications.
traditional acupuncture
Traditional acupuncture is the most common form of performing the technique. And as shown extensively in the movies, this technique involves carefully placing tiny needles in specific spots. The needles do not penetrate deep into the skin layers and try to promote relaxation in different regions of the body. They can be left on the person for an average of 10 to 30 minutes, depending on the professional’s indications.
ear acupuncture
In auricular mode, the applications take place specifically in the auricular region, i.e. in the ears. Thus, auriculotherapy, as it is also known, uses mustard seeds to reach small points in the region. In addition to these seeds, magnetic balls can be used. These pressure objects can also be left on the patient’s skin for days, promoting relaxation in important regions.
scalp acupuncture
Head acupuncture or scalp acupuncture is part of a set of needle application techniques. In this case, the specific area is the head region. The application of the needles varies from patient to patient. It is aligned with the person’s head characteristics and brain functioning. With this, you need to understand that this form of acupuncture is not directly related to the more traditional acupuncture points.
cupping
For the uninitiated, cupping does not use needles or small pressure points but is still part of the acupuncture family. This is a way of applying suction cups that suck the skin through small vessels. This pressing can be done in two ways: suction and heat. Like the others, this one is also meant to relax the region, curing different aches and pains.
Can everyone undergo acupuncture treatments?
Acupuncture poses no health risk as long as it is performed by a trained practitioner, and it doesn’t just work for people who have a specific disease. Anyone can maintain an acupuncture routine. The technique can also be applied to pregnant women, to combat nausea, and to children. However, not everyone is suited to these applications. It is still possible that the application will promote irritation in the patient’s pain, causing greater discomfort. For this reason it is always important to have the help of a professional in the sector, especially a healthcare professional. It will tell you the most beneficial way for your treatment. In this article, you have discovered that acupuncture is an ancient treatment, used to treat serious illnesses such as chronic pain, among others. It was still possible to exhibit the most diverse forms of acupuncture and their benefits for the body.
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
