Originating in China in approximately the 14th-century, acupuncture is a form of traditional Chinese medicine. The practice is a way of balancing the flow of energy, known as Chi or Qi, between the extremities of Yin and the Yang.
The energy flow is often referred to as the life force, it is understood to flow through pathways in your body, also known as the meridians. By inserting needles into one of the 350 specific points on the body, it is believed that an acupuncture practitioner will be able to rebalance your energy flow.
Acupuncture is commonly used to treat pain, it involves the insertion of very thin needles through your skin, these are placed at the pathways of your body. This is said to alleviate pain by stimulating nerves, muscles and connective tissue. The stimulation is believed to boost the body’s own natural painkillers.
Acupuncture can be used to treat a number of illnesses and conditions, we often see it used for chronic pain, injuries, headache, as well as alleviating digestive and upper respiratory disorders. In modern medicine, acupuncture is increasingly being used for neurological and wellness practices such as stress management and anxiety.
Acupuncture seeks to treat the whole patient, their body and mind, that is why your results are very much intertwined with who you see. It is essential that you take the time to research, making sure that you have a qualified practitioner, using sterile needles. To make sure you are in safe hands, take the time to look for a reputable acupuncture clinic near Cornelius, NC.
What To Expect
Acupuncture is a form of natural therapy that has stood the test of time, this is down to its positive results and lack of side effects. While every person’s experience is different, it usually takes more than one treatment to provide long-term results.
Your acupuncturist will assess your symptoms, evaluate how much pain you’re experiencing, determining the right course of treatment for your needs.
Although, some people can experience minor side effects, where the needles have been inserted, such as soreness, bruising or minor bleeding, overall, the risks of acupuncture are relatively low. While there are minimal risks, acupuncture is not for everyone.
There can be risks for those who have a blood disorder, pacemaker or are pregnant, among other things. That is why you should always approach seeking an acupuncturist as if you were seeking a doctor.
Does it Hurt?
While everybody’s experience is different, most people say the process of acupuncture is not painful, as the needles are so thin, you just feel the pressure point. You do, although, have to lie very still for the duration of the practice, this is to allow the energy flow to rebalance.
It can take some time getting used to, but it is a great time to practice meditation and mindfulness. Acupuncture is all about balance, for the mind, body and soul, using it in conjuncture with practices such as mindfulness, will help you to get the best out of the experience.