What is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is far more than a technique of inserting tiny thread-like
needles along meridian (energy channels of the body), Acupuncture is a
complex system of diagnosis that views the person as a whole.
Acupuncture is practiced based on discerning the pattern of disharmony
and treating accordingly. Modern acupuncturist utilizes other modalities
such as herbal medicine, Moxibustion, physical exercise, nutrition,
meditation, breathing exercise and more. Acupuncture is the insertion of
hair-fine needles into the skin and body tissues. They are inserted into
any one or more of a number of acupuncture points (there are over 350
acupuncture points in the human body) for the purpose of stimulating a
physiological response. The response solicited by the acupuncture point
treatment is focused on balancing the body's systems which will in turn
aid the body in functioning properly. Acupuncture does not hurt, The
sensation created by the insertion of each needle should only be one of
heaviness. Often this heaviness may be felt over regions of the body
which are connected to each other by what we refer to as Meridians.
These are the roadways through which your body's energy flows.
Acupuncture is a primary health care modality that has been around for
at least 2000 years and is used widely throughout the world. Acupuncture
is considered safe and effective
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How Does Acupuncture Work?
Acupuncture is a therapy that uses the insertion of tiny thread-like
needles to specific points on the body along meridians (energy channels
of the body). that cross the body. As long as the energy flows freely
through these pathways, health is maintained. When the flow of energy is
disturbed for any reason, there is disruption in health, resulting in
pain or illness. By stimulating appropriate acupuncture points along
these meridians, the energy is regulated, and health is restored.
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What Should You Expect During Treatment?
Most patients find the treatment very relaxing, Most are surprised to
find how comfortable they are during an acupuncture treatment and how
easily and painlessly the needles are inserted. Some patients even go to
sleep during treatment. A patient may feel a sensation upon insertion
and pressure or a "dull" reaction when the needle reaches the correct
depth of the point. The needles are far different (smaller and thinner)
from hypodermic needles.
Is Acupuncture Safe?
One of the great advantages of acupuncture is the absence of side
effects. Needles generally cause no bleeding or pain, and most
practitioners today use the disposable kind (I personally will not see
any practitioner that does not use the disposable kind). There is
minimal risk of organ penetration. Acupuncturists are trained in exact
location, angle as well as depth of insertion of the acupuncture needle
to avoid any injuries.
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How Many Treatments Are Necessary?
No two conditions or people respond exactly the same. The length of
treatment depends on the condition, the severity, and the duration of
the condition. For example, if you awoke this morning with a sore
throat, fever, and body aches vs. you have been suffering from arthritis
for the last ten years and you are twenty pounds over weight. The
physical and emotional state of the patient is also important, as well
as the compliance with your doctor instruction and recommendations.
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Who Practices Acupuncture?
In the United states, the requirements vary from State to State. Most
states require 60 semesters units of undergraduate work prior to a four
year acupuncture program. Licensing credentials are as follows:
C.A. Certified Acupuncturist
L.Ac. Licensed Acupuncturist
D.O.M. Doctor of Oriental Medicine
D.A. Doctor Of Acupuncture
Dipl. Ac. Diplomat of Acupuncture (NCCAOM) A National Certification
required by 37 States.
Dipl. C.H. Diplomat in Chinese Herbology (NCCAOM) A National Achievement
Certification not required at present.
To Look up a licensed acupuncture practitioner in the State of
Florida go to:
http://ww2.doh.state.fl.us