Acupunture for Alternative Treatment
Acupuncture
Chinese medicine or traditional Chinese medicine consists of many folk medical practices which are based on spirituality. The body's vital energy or Chi /qi circulate through channels also known as meridians that consist of branches which connect to bodily organs or functions. Any imbalance or interruption of chi is believed to be attributed to illnesses. Ancient practices such as acupuncture, Qigong and herbal use are thought to restore this balance.
Acupuncture involves inserting very slim, stainless steel needles into assorted parts of the body. Sometimes, low frequency electric currents are applied to the needles to produce a greater stimulation. There are other procedures that may be used in conjunction with acupuncture including:
Moxibustion (burning of floss or herbs which are applied to the skin)
Injection of sterilized water
Procaine
Morphine
Vitamins
Homeopathic solutions which are inserted through the needles
Applications of laser beams (laser puncture)
Placement of needles in the ear (auriculotherapy)
Acupressure (use of manual pressure)
Treatment is applied to the acupuncture points which are believed to be located throughout the body. There were originally 365 points which represented the days of the year but during the past 2000 years, proponents have identified more and this number has increased gradually to around 2000.
Many practitioners place needles near or on the area of the disease whereas others select points according to the patient’s symptoms. Traditional acupuncture consists of a combination of points being used.
Most acupuncturists follow the traditional Chinese view of health and disease and consider that acupuncture along with herbal remedies and other related practices are valid approaches to curing disease. Other acupuncturists disagree with this traditional approach and believe that the process of acupuncture merely offers a way to relieve pain.
