Using needles to adjust bodily functions to optimum levels is the principle behind acupuncture. Both ancient Chinese and modern Western practitioners have used this technique to relieve sufferers of all kinds of chronic disease. Needling is a relatively safe, beneficial treatment strategy that can be used to reduce pain, improve healing, and increase general well-being. But exactly how is this procedure done and what sort of benefits can be obtained from it?

Procedure for Needle Puncture

There are two broad categories of acupuncture practiced today, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and medical acupuncture. Both have their merits, so which one is best is a decision that is up the individual. The decision for most people hinges upon which philosophy appeals to them the most. In TCM, practitioners adhere to the concept of Qi, or energy flow, and the meridians in which they travel. It uses longer needles and inserts them deeper in order to reach certain acupuncture points. In medical acupuncture, the practitioners are graduates of western medical schools. Their application of needles is not based on the traditional acupuncture points, but on anatomic data. These acupuncturists use shorter needles and the insertions are shallower. They also tend to use fewer needles and leave them inserted for shorter periods of time. Adherents to TCM feel this is a watered-down version of the real thing.

Conditions for Puncture Application

There is a broad and extensive list of ailments which can be treated using acupuncture. The conditions run the gamut from asthma to constipation, anxiety to weight loss, etc. Most TCM practitioners believe that any health condition results from an imbalance in Qi flow. Western acupuncturists tend to have a more limited list of indications, the most common of which is pain control. Control of pain is the most well researched of all of the applications for acupuncture. There is a definite beneficial effect for a majority of patients using this method. Migraines, premenstrual syndrome, arthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome, and neuralgias are but a few examples of conditions that can be relieved using acupuncture. 

Expected Puncture Session Results

It is important to emphasize that acupuncture is used only on top of existing medical therapy. At no time should a patient discontinue medication or ignore medical instructions in favor of needle puncture. After undergoing a needle puncture regimen, the primary care physician can make an evaluation with regards to decreasing dependence on other therapies. In short, acupuncture has proven its worth time and again. Modern practice guidelines make it effective, reproducible and safe. If you are asking yourself, “where can I find acupuncture near me,” we can provide you with this service and provide you with a Key West couples massage that helps invigorate you and your loved one.