Monday, July 14, 2008

Acupuncture - An Introduction

By: Barry Friedmann

A major part of traditional Chinese medicine is Acupuncture. It has been acclaimed as one of the oldest forms of healing in the world. The story behind acupuncture is the belief that there a disruption in the flow of qi and imbalances within the forces of both yin and yang cause many diseases to occur. A combination of herbs, meditation, massage and acupuncture are believed to restore the balance of yin-hang and the flow of qi. This helps to aid the healing process. Acupuncture involves the stimulation of specific points in the body, which removes blockages in the flow of qi and therefore restores and maintains one's health. Acupuncture is an area of alternative medicine, which is not widely accepted as part of conventional medicine.

Because acupuncture is not always accepted as being part of traditional medicine, there are several points that we should consider about this treatment:

Acupuncture has been used by Chinese and other Asian people for many, many years.

The effectiveness of acupuncture for treating many conditions is currently being studied by scientists.

Few complications arise as a result of acupuncture, although there can be serious side effects if it is not performed by a person who is suitably qualified.

Although acupuncture has existed in China and other Asian countries for several years, it has only been used in the United States since 1971. Since it was introduced, many people have chosen to use it for a multitude of conditions, including chronic pain, arthritis, post-surgical pain and migraines. Many people do not like the thought of needles being injected into them, but most are extremely happy with the benefits achieved from using acupuncture. Many people try acupuncture after all traditional medical procedures have failed to help them.

One should not be scared of acupuncture as long as you are treated by a qualified practitioner. Sometimes, practitioners do not follow proper safety procedures or people choose a practitioner who is not suitably qualified and this can lead to problems. Nobody would visit a medical doctor who was not properly qualified to treat you, and one should take the same care when choosing an acupuncture practitioner. In the United States, use of the needles is regulated by the FDA, and can even include a requirement for one time use.

By obtaining all necessary information about acupuncture and being careful to choose a practitioner that is suitably qualified, you will gain a better understanding and will be able to make a decision regarding the benefits it will provide you with. One should not choose a practitioner just on someone else's recommendation - you should first conduct your own research.

Article Source: http://menshealthtoday.com

Before you buy anything, make sure you check out the excellent free information on acupuncture and acupuncture treatment

Other Articles of Interest

Antioxidants in Green Tea and Black Tea

The Health Benefits of Flaxseed

Health Benefits of Acai Berry

Health Benefits of Chocolate

Herbal Green Tea

Green Tea Extract

A Look at Xanthones and Mangosteen

Antioxidants in Goji Berry

Antioxidants and Anti-Aging Wrinkle Cream