Acupuncture originates from China and has been practiced there for countless years. Although there are records of acupuncture being made use of centuries back in Europe, it was during the second half of the twentieth century it started to spread quickly into Western cultures.
Acupuncture involves the insertion of very thin needles through the client’s skin at certain points on the body – the needles are placed to numerous depths. It is not specifically known how acupuncture works clinically. Nonetheless, is is understood that it does have some restorative advantages, consisting of pain relief and alleviation from nausea triggered by treatments such as chemotherapy.
According to standard Chinese medical theory, acupuncture points are found on meridians through which gi vital energy runs. Different studies have explained how the concepts of acupuncture are firmly grounded in science, and you do not need Chinese philosophy either to make it work, or to practice it.
What are the benefits of acupuncture?
- When carried out properly it is safe
- There are very few side effects
- It is a very efficient combination therapy
- It works in controlling some kinds of pain
- It might be considered for patients who do not respond well to discomfort medicines
- It is a beneficial alternative for patients who do not want to take pain medications
Acupuncture improves the body’s functions and promotes the natural self-healing process.
At Encompass, we feel that Acupuncture takes a wholistic approach to understanding normal function and disease processes and focuses as much on the prevention of the disease as on the treatment.
Acupuncture improves the body’s functions and promotes the natural self-healing process by stimulating specific anatomic sites — commonly referred to as acupuncture points, or acupoints. The most common method used to stimulate acupoints is the insertion of fine, sterile needles into the skin. Pressure, heat, or electrical stimulation may further enhance the effects. Other acupoint stimulation techniques include: manual massage, moxibustion or heat therapy, cupping, and the application of topical herbal medicines and liniments.