What is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is a part of a medical system that has been in practice for over 2,500 years. This system includes acupuncture, traditional Chinese herbal medicine, physiotherapy, exercise therapy and diet therapy. Today, Oriental Medicine is researched and practiced in hospitals and clinics around the world.

Oriental Medicine views a client and his/her condition as a whole system rather than only focusing on the symptoms of a disease. The body's many systems must be in balance in order for healthy functioning to be maintained. When a body is healthy the qi, loosely translated as the body's functional healing energy, flows smoothly along the system's energy channels called meridians. Each system in the body has a corresponding meridian. When a person displays outward symptoms of disease, an Oriental practitioner analyzes this information in order to determine the pattern of disharmony in the body's systems.

Acupuncture is a functional therapy, promoting the body's innate healing capacity. Treatment involves the insertion of tiny, pre-sterilized, disposable, stainless steel needles in precise points on the body. These points are located on the meridians and are stimulated to regulate the flow of qi. Oriental Medical theory states that disease or pain is caused by imbalances of the various systems in the body. Qi (pronounced "chee") regulation helps to restore these systems to proper balance.

Modern research confirms that acupuncture works in part by stimulating nerves, which in turn evoke brain and body chemistry changes. Acupuncture causes the release of various neurotransmitters such as endorphins. It increases blood circulation, reduces inflammation, and helps regulate many systems, including the immune, nervous, digestive and endocrine systems.

ABM Health Care Medical Doctor