Acupuncture in Medicine

Acupuncture (pronunciation: /ˈækjʊˌpʌŋktʃər/) is a form of alternative medicine and a key component of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) in which thin needles are inserted into the body. The etymology of the term comes from the Latin acus meaning "needle", and punctura meaning "to puncture".

History

The practice of acupuncture to treat identifiable pathophysiological disease conditions in American medicine was rare until the visit of President Richard M. Nixon to China in 1972. Since that time, there has been an explosion of interest in the United States and Europe in the application of the technique of acupuncture to Western medicine.

Method

Acupuncture involves the insertion of very thin needles through the patient's skin at specific points on the body - the needles are inserted to various depths. The acupuncture points are seen as places where nerves, muscles, and connective tissue can be stimulated. The stimulation increases blood flow, while at the same time triggering the activity of the body's natural painkillers.

Uses in Medicine

In Western societies and several other parts of the world, acupuncture is explained including concepts of neuroscience. Acupuncture points are seen by Western practitioners as places where nerves, muscles and connective tissue can be stimulated. Acupuncture practitioners say that the stimulation increases blood flow while at the same time triggering the activity of our own body's natural painkillers.

It is often used for pain relief, though it is also used for a wide range of other conditions. It is commonly used for pain relief, though it is also used to treat a wide range of conditions. The majority of people who seek out acupuncture do so for musculoskeletal problems, including low back pain, shoulder stiffness, and knee pain.

Safety

Acupuncture is generally safe when done by an appropriately trained practitioner using clean needle technique and single-use needles. When properly delivered, it has a low rate of mostly minor adverse effects.

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Acupuncture in Medicine