WHAT IS ACUPUNCTURE?
Acupuncture is the stimulation of specific acupoints along the skin of the body involving various methods such as penetration by thin needles and/or application of heat, pressure or electrical stimulation.
Acupuncture, an ancient healing practice rooted in traditional Chinese medicine, has been a source of relief and rejuvenation for countless individuals around the world. At its core, acupuncture involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body, known as acupuncture points, to alleviate pain, promote relaxation, and restore balance to the body’s energy flow, or qi.
For centuries, acupuncture has been revered for its ability to address a wide range of health concerns, from chronic pain and stress-related disorders to digestive issues and sleep disturbances. Its holistic approach to healing views the body as an interconnected system, where physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being are intricately intertwined.
BENEFITS OF ACUPUNCTURE
Acupuncture is used to encourage natural healing, improve mood and energy, to treat a range of conditions; it is also used for pain relief. It is safe and effective and is often successfully used as an alternative to medications or even surgery. We take pride in the extensive knowledge we have about treating many conditions, and we continue to increase our knowledge through education and practice. We strive to give you the most effective acupuncture treatment for your condition. There are so many pain relief options available at the clinic that are readily available to help get you back to a more functional lifestyle.
Here are some Physical conditions we treat with Acupuncture.
- Chronic Pain: Acupuncture is often used to alleviate chronic pain conditions such as Back pain, neck pain, joint pain, and headaches. It can help reduce inflammation, relax muscles, and stimulate the release of endorphins, the body’s natural pain-relieving hormones. Acupuncture is being studied for its efficacy in alleviating many kinds of pain. Back pain is the most commonly reported use, followed by Joint pain, Neck pain, and Headaches.
- Musculoskeletal Disorders: Acupuncture is beneficial for musculoskeletal disorders like osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, tendonitis, and fibromyalgia. It can help improve joint function, reduce stiffness, and relieve pain associated with these conditions.
- Digestive Disorders: Acupuncture can aid in the treatment of digestive disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), acid reflux, constipation, and gastritis. It may help regulate digestive function, reduce inflammation, and alleviate symptoms like bloating and abdominal discomfort.
- Menstrual and Reproductive Issues: Acupuncture is often used to address Periods Pain, menstrual irregularities, PMS symptoms, menopausal hot flashes, and fertility issues. It may help regulate hormone levels, improve blood flow to the reproductive organs, and reduce stress, all of which can impact reproductive health.
- Respiratory Conditions: Acupuncture can be beneficial for respiratory conditions like asthma, allergies, sinusitis, and bronchitis. It may help open up the airways, reduce inflammation, and improve breathing function.
- Neurological Disorders: Acupuncture is sometimes used as a complementary therapy for neurological disorders such as migraine headaches, neuropathy, stroke recovery, and multiple sclerosis. It may help alleviate pain, improve nerve function, and enhance overall well-being.
- Stress and Sleep Disorders: Acupuncture may offer relief for sleep disorders like insomnia, sleep apnea, and restless leg syndrome. It can help calm the mind, reduce stress, and promote relaxation, leading to improved sleep quality and duration.
- Skin Conditions: Acupuncture can be helpful for managing certain skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, acne, and dermatitis. It may help reduce inflammation, promote detoxification, and restore balance to the body’s immune system.
HOW IT WORKS?
Stimulating specific acupuncture points corrects imbalances in the flow of qi energy through channels known as meridians. It also stimulates the nervous system to release chemicals in the muscles, spinal cord, and brain. These chemicals will either change the experience of pain, or they will trigger the release of the other chemicals and hormones which influence body’s own internal regulating system. During an acupuncture session, a trained practitioner carefully selects and inserts needles into acupuncture points along energy pathways, or meridians, corresponding to the patient’s specific needs and concerns. The needles are typically left in place for a short period, allowing the body to respond to the stimulation and initiate its innate healing processes.
From a Western perspective, acupuncture is believed to stimulate the nervous system, triggering the release of neurotransmitters and endorphins, the body’s natural pain-relieving chemicals. It may also promote circulation, reduce inflammation, and regulate various physiological functions, contributing to overall health and well-being.
ARE THERE ANY SIDE EFFECTS OF ACUPUNCTURE?
As energy is redirected in the body, internal chemicals and hormones are stimulated and healing begins to take place. Occasionally, the original symptoms worsen for a few days, or other general changes in appetite, sleep, bowel or urination patterns, or emotional state may be triggered. These should not cause concern, as they are simply indications that the acupuncture is starting to work.
Some common side-effects of Acupuncture are Mild pain where the needles puncture the skin but less than injection as these needles are very thin, some people don’t feel it when they are going in, sometimes there is Bleeding or Bruising in some points, Drowsiness, or feeling dizzy or faint. It is quite common with the first one or two treatments to have a sensation of deep relaxation or even mild disorientation immediately following the treatment. These pass within a short time, and never require anything more than a bit of rest to overcome.
WHAT ARE NEEDLES LIKE? HOW DOES IT FEEL?
Acupuncture needles are typically made of stainless steel, making them flexible and preventing them from rusting or breaking. Needles are disposable, and they are thrown away after use to prevent contamination.
People experience acupuncture needling differently. Most patients feel only minimal pain as the needles are inserted; some feel no pain at all. Once the needles are in place, there is no pain felt. A dull, heavy or aching feeling often occurs when the needle is placed correctly which is referred to as “de Qi”.
The World Health Organization recognizes the use of Acupuncture in the treatment of wide range of problems, including: Muscular and Neurological disorders: headaches, facial tics, neck pain, rib neuritis, frozen shoulder, tennis elbow, various forms of tendonitis, low back pain, sciatica, osteoarthritis. Digestive disorders: gastritis, hyper acidity, spastic colon, constipation, diarrhea. Respiratory disorders: Sinusitis, sore throat, bronchitis, asthma, recurrent chest infections. Urinary, menstrual and reproductive problems and many more
At HELIOS we can help in prevention and management of injuries resulting at all ages and at all levels of ability. We can help to improve all levels of ability to enhance your performance. Acupuncture offers a holistic approach to wellness that honors the body’s innate capacity for healing and restoration. As individuals continue to seek natural and alternative approaches to health and wellness, acupuncture stands as a timeless and enduring practice, offering relief, renewal, and a path to greater vitality and balance.