What is acupuncture and how does acupuncture work are some of the commonly asked questions in most parts of the world today. Acupuncture is an ancient alternative therapy developed and practiced by Chinese doctors for thousands of years. In acupuncture therapy, very fine and sharp needles are inserted in your skin at very specific points; heating and electric stimulation is also given in some cases. There are hundreds of points in your body what are referred to as “acupuncture points”.
The insertion points are chosen very precisely by an acupuncture practitioner, and they may vary from person to person. The acupuncture points so selected also vary on the ailment or disorder to be treated.
Now, you might be keen to know what does acupuncture do? Acupuncture therapy is based on the theory of energy flow in the body. By inserting the needles in your skin, the energy flow is regulated by maintaining the balance between what is known as “positive” and “negative” energies. In Chinese terms, positive and negative are termed as Yang and Yin, respectively. The imbalance between Yin and Yang indicates that there is some physical disorder in your body and you need to get that balance maintained for restoring your health. The insertion of the needles stimulates your nervous system and helps in releasing and controlling the flow of chemicals in various parts of your body. This is what acupuncture is.
Nowadays, acupuncture therapy is widely used for curing several ailments and disorders such as those listed below:
- For the treatment of depression and anxiety and other disorders related to the nervous system.
- For relieving joint and muscular pains, including even chronic rheumatic pains.
- For disorders of the respiratory system, including even cure chronic sinusitis.
- For disorders related to the digestive system.
- For weight loss.
- For the treatment of hair loss.
If you happen to suffer from any of these ailments, you might want to opt for acupuncture therapy. However, while looking for an acupuncturist, you must make sure that he/she is highly experienced and qualified, with a proven track record. For this you can speak to the people who have already taken treatment from someone. Never get carried away by the advertisements on the Internet or printed media, as these may be scams. Improper acupuncture may have negative effects as well.
You should also know that you may or may not get the positive results from this therapy; as like any other alternative therapy, the results vary from person to person. The best way would be to consult your health care provider before opting for acupuncture therapy.