Acupuncture is a form of traditional Chinese medicine that’s been around for thousands of years. It involves inserting thin needles into your skin at specific points on your body to relieve pain and treat other health conditions.
Here are some things to know about acupuncture:
It’s usually done in a doctor’s office or clinic by a licensed acupuncturist. It may also be done by medical professionals such as dentists and physical therapists who have been trained in the technique.
It doesn’t hurt, but it may feel uncomfortable when the needles go in, especially if you’ve never had acupuncture before. You can expect to feel a slight pinch or tingling sensation when the needles are inserted and removed, but most people don’t feel pain during treatment. Some people describe it as feeling like an electric shock or popping bubble wrap under their skin.
Research has shown that acupuncture can reduce chronic pain caused by arthritis and lower back pain — both conditions that often respond well to conventional treatments such as prescription drugs or physical therapy. Research also suggests that acupuncture may help improve fertility in women undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatments by boosting egg quality and stimulating production of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH).
Acupuncture can work wonders for many people, but it’s important to understand that it won’t work for everyone. There are many factors involved in deciding whether or not acupuncture is right for you, such as your medical history, allergies and overall health. If you are considering acupuncture as an option, please consult with our office regarding your suitability prior to making an appointment.
The needles used in acupuncture are extremely fine (about the thickness of a hair) and are inserted into specific points along energy channels (meridians) on your body. Some acupuncturists use electrical stimulation or heat along with needles, but this does not apply to all styles of acupuncture.
The goal of acupuncture is to restore balance within the body by stimulating the flow of qi — energy that circulates through pathways called meridians throughout the body — which helps promote overall healing and well-being. Acupuncture can be used on its own or as part of a holistic treatment plan alongside other natural healing modalities like herbal medicine and dietary therapy or as a complement to conventional medical treatment.
Acupuncture can be used to treat many conditions, including:
Back pain
Headaches
Arthritis and rheumatism
Depression and anxiety
Acupuncture is generally safe when done by a trained practitioner. However, there are some risks involved with acupuncture, including infection from improper sterilization of the needles and bleeding from needle placement. Contact us to know more information on acupuncture in Guildford.
