What An Acupuncturist Does
If you’re looking to get needles poked into your skin, there are several things you should know about an acupuncturist. Acupuncture has been practiced in the United States since the 1970s, and though it originated in China more than 5,000 years ago, it wasn’t until the early 20th century that it became popular in the West. Today, there are thousands of practicing acupuncturists throughout the world. But what does an acupuncturist Columbia, MD actually do? What makes an acupuncturist so special? What can they treat? And how can they help you personally according to our friends at Patapsco Integrative Medicine & Rehab?
The Healing Power of Needles
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has been around for centuries and is based on the belief that our health is determined by the flow of energy, or qi, in our bodies. Acupuncture is one of the main tools used in TCM to restore balance and promote healing. Needles are inserted at various points along the body’s meridians — the pathways through which qi flows — to stimulate the release of endorphins, a natural pain reliever. A session usually lasts about 45 minutes, during which time patients recline fully clothed on a table and listen to calming music as they’re being treated. Afterward, many people report feeling relaxed and refreshed. Some studies have shown acupuncture can help alleviate chronic pain from conditions like arthritis and back problems; relieve nausea from chemotherapy; and treat anxiety disorders like obsessive-compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, panic attacks, migraines, sleep disorders, irritable bowel syndrome, addiction withdrawal symptoms; increase fertility rates; relieve menopausal symptoms like hot flashes; alleviate labor pains; and speed recovery after surgery.
The Benefits of Acupuncture
Acupuncture is a form of traditional Chinese medicine that has been used for centuries to treat a variety of ailments. Today, acupuncture is commonly used to relieve pain, reduce stress, and improve overall well-being. It also may be helpful in treating other medical conditions such as depression, migraines, allergies, fertility issues, digestive problems, menopause symptoms and more. In fact, many people have found relief from chronic pain after only one treatment!
The Science Behind It All
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is based on the belief that good health is achieved by maintaining balance and harmony within the body. According to TCM, our bodies are composed of two opposing forces: yin and yang. Yin represents all that is negative, dark, and feminine, while yang represents all that is positive, light, and masculine. Health is achieved when these two forces are in balance. However, any disruption of this balance can lead to illness. That’s where acupuncture comes in. Acupuncture was developed as a way to help maintain this natural balance through specific stimulation of points along the body’s meridians — the channels that carry life-giving energy from one part of the body to another. In addition to relieving pain, other benefits include helping with headaches, stress, sleep problems, fatigue and so much more. Acupuncture treatment typically begins with a detailed intake interview to determine your individual needs followed by treatments consisting of needles placed at specific acupoints on your skin.
Contact an acupuncturist today to schedule an appointment to see how they can help you overcome your aches and pains.