1) Acupuncturists view each person individually
No two people are alike. Every cell in the body is connected to others and functions as part of a whole. In other words, acupuncture treats the whole person, not just parts and pieces. The root causes of a symptom that two people are experiencing may be completely different. During an initial exam, a full health history will be taken. Questions will be asked regarding overall health, lifestyle, exercise, nutrition and other factors. All aspects of the patient are considered when putting together an effective treatment, that’s one reason why acupuncture works.
2) Acupuncture helps self-healing of the body
An acupuncturist treats more than symptoms and signs. Acupuncture activates the body’s natural healing by treating the root causes that have led to the problem or disease.
Research shows that acupuncture triggers the body’s own mechanisms for manufacturing and releasing its own pain relieving chemicals.
These chemicals are endorphins and dopamines, opioid-like compounds that produce the feeling of well-being and reduce pain. The body knows the exact dose that is needed at the right time. It is like a perfect pharmacy that can produce any “medication” needed for healing without any unwanted side effects!
3) Acupuncture has no negative side-effects
Acupuncture is a natural therapy and works directly with the body’s natural processes, not against them. No drugs are used. Invasive procedures and drug therapies used in common medical treatments may produce undesirable side effects. But not acupuncture, it does not have these side effects. In fact, feeling great is the most commonly reported result.
4) Acupuncture helps to support the immune system
The immune system works throughout our body to prevent and fight illnesses. Our digestive tract, skin, and lymphatic system are three important parts of the immune system. The immune system can be weakened at times by disease and/or certain treatments and medications. Lifestyle contributors such as poor diet, stress, and poor self care can also negatively impact the immune system. The goal of acupuncture is to find and treat the underlying imbalances that are affecting the flow of Qi (pronounced “chee”), our vital energy or power. It effects the immune system by addressing the root causes. Acupuncture can help you regain balance and improve your overall health.
5) Acupuncture helps recovering from drug, alcohol and smoking addictions
Recovery from drug, alcohol and smoking addictions can be made easier with acupuncture. Stress, anxiety and depression are some of the largest stumbling blocks in quitting addictive habits and behaviors. Acupuncture is successful at calming and relaxing the mind, reducing anxiety and alleviating depressive feelings.
6) Acupuncture is recognized by leading national and international health organizations*
The National Institutes of Health and the World Health Organization are among those organizations who recognize that acupuncture is effective in the treatment of over 50 western medical diseases. disorders and symptoms. These include pain, infertility, allergies, depression/anxiety, migraines, digestive issues, arthritis, fibromyalgia and more.
* National Institutes of Health (NIH), World Health Organization (WHO), National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM), American Association of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (AAAOM)
7) Acupuncture is safe and painless
When practiced by a qualified practitioner, acupuncture is safe. In 1996, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) classified acupuncture needles as medical instruments, assuring their safety and effectiveness. The needles are one-time use only and are sterile and do not carry any significant risk of infection.
Acupuncture needles are about ten times smaller in size than an average hypodermic needle, approximately the size of a cat’s whisker, and they are very flexible.
They don’t hurt in the way that hypodermic needles do, however a slight sensation may be experienced as the acupuncture needle is inserted.
8) Acupuncture treatment is an excellent stress-relief therapy
Along with treating symptoms and signs associated with stress, acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) address the root cause(s) of a problem. Qi is the vital energy or power that animates and supports the functions of the body. It flows through specific pathways, called meridians, and provides nourishment for the entire body. When Qi becomes “blocked” or the supply is inadequate, the body and organ system becomes “stressed out” and health can be compromised. With acupuncture and TCM, the practitioner’s job is to support and restore the integrity of the various organs affected and depleted by the stress response, along with evaluating the quality and quantity of Qi.
9) Acupuncture is an affordable alternative
Compared to some expensive Western medical therapies, treatments and medications, acupuncture is affordable. And it is effective. It may help you avoid further medical expenses down the road when it is used. And Acupuncture can also help you make lifestyle changes and prevent future illness. Many insurance companies now cover acupuncture, check your plan.
10) Acupuncture works!
Acupuncture has been used by millions of people over 3,000 years. Acupuncturists have used this gentle treatment to help many become well and stay well. As the old adage goes, “there is nothing to fear, but fear itself”! Acupuncture works and this safe, natural, drug-free way of whole body healing is worth a try!
Want more information? Check out our Free 18 minute video: Demystifying Acupuncture by Dr. Kerry Boyle
