Types of Acupuncture
What are the types of Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is categorized into the following different types:
Traditional Chinese Acupuncture: This is a well-known and ancient form of acupuncture rooted in the principles and theories of traditional Chinese medicine.
Japanese Acupuncture: The acupuncture approach involves gentle needling and examination by touch. It typically employs thin needles and shallow insertions contrary to other supplemental therapies.
Korean Hand Acupuncture: This method is performed on the hands, where acupuncture points correspond to different body parts.
Auricular Acupuncture: Popularly known as ear acupuncture, this practice involves needle piercing on the outer ear. It generally treats addiction or manages pain.
Scalp Acupuncture: This method targets different points on the scalp and helps promote the normal functioning of the body. It is frequently used to treat neurological conditions.
Five-Element Acupuncture: Based on the five elements of wood, fire, earth, metal, and water, this technique balances the body's energy by treating the interconnected meridians.
Trigger Point Acupuncture: By inserting needles into specific muscles and stimulating trigger points, acupuncture reduces muscular tension.
Electroacupuncture: The acupuncture needles are loaded with small electric currents to promote therapeutic effects.
How does Acupuncture work?
Acupuncture works by stimulating specific points termed acupoints. These points are believed to be located along meridians, which are energy channels through which Qi or the body's energy flows. Disruption in Qi contributes to several health issues. Acupuncture addresses these issues by inserting fine needles into the acupoints.
The process stimulates the nervous system and exudes pain-relieving chemicals namely endorphins and neurotransmitters to promote healing. Moreover, pierced needles foster relaxation and reduce stress by regulating the activity of the autonomic nervous system.
From a Western medical perspective, acupuncture stimulates sensory nerves. These nerves then transmit signals to the brain and spinal cord to release pain-relieving substances.
What are the benefits of Acupuncture?
The potential benefits of acupuncture are as follows:
Pain Relief: Acupuncture is often sought for its pain-relieving effects. It has proven to be useful for chronic pain, migraines, osteoarthritis, or postoperative pain.
Stress: It reduces stress and promotes relaxation to improve sleep quality. It also alleviates the signs and symptoms of anxiety and depression.
Better Well-being: Many patients find that acupuncture improves their overall health. It can help boost energy levels and thus fosters positive emotions.
Promotes digestive health: Stylostixis also regulates digestion and mitigates the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome, acid reflux, or nausea.
Support mental well-being: This therapy is also used as a complementary approach to treat psychological conditions such as anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder.
What are the disadvantages of Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is a safe procedure only if performed by a qualified practitioner. Also, the risks of severe side effects are low, notably if sterile needles are employed. However, a few adverse effects include:
Temporary soreness and skin inflammation
Bruising that may persist for more than a week
Minor bleeding at the needle insertion sites
To ensure safety, seek acupuncture treatment from a licensed practitioner. Also, share your pre-existing health conditions with the acupuncturist beforehand.
How often should you get Acupuncture?
The frequency of acupuncture sessions depends on individual needs and the targeted treatment. Usually, patients experiencing acute medical conditions require frequent sessions once or twice a week.
Whereas, patients suffering from chronic ailments need weekly or bi-weekly treatment sessions.
In both cases, the acupuncturist switches patients to monthly sessions as their health improves.