Acupuncture
Acupuncture is an ancient and alternative medicine that helps in treating diseases and pains. Acupuncture therapy originated in China. Patients are treated by inserting needles on the key points of the body. These needles are metallic and extremely thin. On inserting these needle, one would feel no or slight pain. Acupuncture is an ancient treatment that stimulates the central nervous system.
The three main mechanisms on which acupuncture works:
Activation of Opioid System:
- In the research it has been found that during acupuncture treatment opioids chemicals are released into the central nervous system. These opioids help in reducing pain.
- Acupuncture helps in stimulating central nervous system by releasing these chemicals. Change in the secretion of neurotransmitters and neurohormones:
- It has been studied that during acupuncture therapy, hypothalamus and pituitary glands get activated. As a result, they alter brain chemistry by secreting neurotransmitters and neurohormones.
- It affects the immune system and helps in regulating blood pressure, blood flow and temperature. Stimulation of Electromagnetic Points:
- Acupuncture is focused on 2,000 points on the body.
- During treatment, electromagnetic signals flowed at greater rate than the normal.
- The stimulation of electromagnetic signals helps in the flow of pain killer chemicals presents in the body.
It helps by stimulating natural healing and improves the function of the body. After getting the therapy, energy system of a person is actuated and it starts running in a regular pattern making him or her revitalized. The flow and distribution of the energy within its pathway known as meridians and channels in this treatment.Insertion of needles helps in unblocking the obstructions and thus improving digestion, energy production and blood circulation in the body.
Acupuncture needles are made up of stainless steel wire of 13-130 mm with 0.16 to 0.46 mm diameter. The tip of needle is not too sharp. Needling depth varies depending on the channels being treated. One should always consider licensed practitioner for getting acupuncture therapy. There are certified practitioners. A person should not rely on untrained practitioner. He/she should take treatment on doctor's advice. A person should always refer practitioner's background and reviews. A patient should share complete medical history with the doctor. The treatment includes 3 to 10 sessions of an hour each. Insertion of needle produces sensations like pain, numbness, soreness, heaviness and distension.
Take precautions suggested by the doctor while taking the acupuncture treatment.