Acupuncture has been used as an alternative treatment for
neuropathy. Richard has found it very helpful in reducing the pain he has in his hands and feet from thalidomide induced neuropathy.
The word "acupuncture" comes from the Latin word
acus (needle) and
punctura (penetration). The procedure originated in China over 2000 years ago. Today it encompasses many styles and techniques.
Generally acupuncture refers to a family of procedures used to
stimulate anatomical points. Manual manipulation and/or electrical stimulation of thin, solid metallic needles is most often are used to provide stimulation; other methods include manual pressure, electrical stimulation, magnets, low power laser, heat, and ultrasound.
Three important acupuncture concepts include
qi, yin/yang, and Five Elements.
Qi is translated as "vital energy". It permeates all things, may assume different forms, and may travel through meridians located on the body. Yin and yang are complementary opposites and should be in balance for health. The Five Elements are wood, water, fire, earth, and metal. They represent different basic processes, qualities, or phases of a cycle.
Eastern medical practitioners strive to restore constitutional balance. Acupuncture is one option.
Once a diagnosis is established, fine metal needles are inserted into precisely defined points to correct disruptions in harmony. Classic theory recognizes about 365 points located on 14 channels (meridians) connecting the body. Between 5 to 20 needles are used in a typical treatment.
Several models have been proposed to explain the effects of acupuncture. The most thoroughly studied application of acupuncture is pain relief. Studies suggest that acupuncture stimulation is associated with neurotransmitter effects such as
endorphin release at both the spinal and supra spinal levels.
There have been hundreds of controlled trials of acupuncture which show benefit or various conditions including
chronic pain, postoperative nausea and vomiting, chemotherapy induced nausea, acute pain, headache, and hypertension. There are about 50 ongoing
trials currently recruiting. More acupuncture information
here.
Picture:Acupuncture chart from Hua Shou (fl. 1340s, Ming Dynasty )
Acupuncture has been used as an alternative treatment for neuropathy. Richard has found it very helpful in reducing the pain he has in his hands and feet from thalidomide induced neuropathy.
The word "acupuncture" comes from the Latin word acus (needle) and punctura (penetration). The procedure originated in China over 2000 years ago. Today it encompasses many styles and techniques.
Generally acupuncture refers to a family of procedures used to stimulate anatomical points. Manual manipulation and/or electrical stimulation of thin, solid metallic needles is most often are used to provide stimulation; other methods include manual pressure, electrical stimulation, magnets, low power laser, heat, and ultrasound.
Three important acupuncture concepts include qi, yin/yang, and Five Elements.
Qi is translated as "vital energy". It permeates all things, may assume different forms, and may travel through meridians located on the body. Yin and yang are complementary opposites and should be in balance for health. The Five Elements are wood, water, fire, earth, and metal. They represent different basic processes, qualities, or phases of a cycle.
Eastern medical practitioners strive to restore constitutional balance. Acupuncture is one option.
Once a diagnosis is established, fine metal needles are inserted into precisely defined points to correct disruptions in harmony. Classic theory recognizes about 365 points located on 14 channels (meridians) connecting the body. Between 5 to 20 needles are used in a typical treatment.
Several models have been proposed to explain the effects of acupuncture. The most thoroughly studied application of acupuncture is pain relief. Studies suggest that acupuncture stimulation is associated with neurotransmitter effects such as endorphin release at both the spinal and supra spinal levels.
There have been hundreds of controlled trials of acupuncture which show benefit or various conditions including chronic pain, postoperative nausea and vomiting, chemotherapy induced nausea, acute pain, headache, and hypertension.
There are about 50 ongoing trials currently recruiting.
More acupuncture information here.
Picture:
Acupuncture chart from Hua Shou (fl. 1340s, Ming Dynasty )