Acupuncture is an ancient healing art that has been developed and practised in China during the last 3,000 years. Today it is a well-known therapy that is practised all over the world. In 1979 the World Health Organization formulated a list of 43 disease that can be treated by Acupuncture. Recently however it has been reported effective for about 250 kinds of disease. Today, in many countries acupuncture is gradually integrated into the main stream health systems and Acupuncturists are considered as primary health care providers.
According to Chinese theory, disease manifests once our energy system is unbalanced and blocked. For example: Poor circulation of Qi causes pain and discomfort. Qi flowing the wrong direction will cause nausea, vomiting, coughing, diarrhea and prolapses of various organs. Deficiency of Qi causes fatigue, shortness of breath and a reluctance to talk or do anything. Excess Qi in the upper body will lead to emotional disturbance and poor sleep.
During Acupuncture treatment, fine (disposable) needles are inserted into specific points along the meridians. These needles stimulate the flow of Qi through the meridians and thus unblocking and harmonizing the whole body.
Colds and Flu
Not common knowledge, acupuncture is actually quite effective not only in preventing colds and flu but in reducing time one is sick.
Asthma and Allergies
Acupuncture, combined with lifestyle changes and herbs, is very effective in treating Asthma and both respiratory and food allergies.
Relieve Stress
Stress is now recognized as a leading cause of illness in our society, and a program of relaxation is one of the most important things we can do to improve and maintain our health. Acupuncture is one of the easiest ways of producing a beneficial state of relaxation.
Relieve Pain and Speed the Healing of Injuries
This aspect of acupuncture is now becoming common knowledge. Acupuncture is effective in treating injury-related pains (such as whiplash) and also other pains like headaches and migraines.
Improve Sleep and Relieve Insomnia
Whether you feel like you’re sleeping too little or too much, acupuncture is an excellent natural remedy. And it is entirely without the undesirable side effects of drugs.
Treat Addictions
Acupuncture is recognized as one of the best treatments for the withdrawal symptoms of many hard drugs. But it is also in common use for treating other addictions such as smoking (and may possibly help overeating).
Help with Emotional Problems
Conditions like depression and anxiety respond well to acupuncture.
Treat Hypertension and other Circulatory Disorders
Conditions like high blood pressure and even angina respond well to acupuncture.
Relieve PMS and Painful Menstruation
Acupuncture is very effective in relieving the pain, cramping, mood swings and other symptoms associated with premenstrual stress. Acupuncture can successfully treat irregular or painful menstruation, and also male or female infertility.
Urogenital Disorders
Problems from urinary tract disorders to sexual dysfunction can be treated by acupuncture.
Skin Disorders
The use of acupuncture can restore balance to the skin and treat common conditions such as Eczema and Dermatitis.
Digestive Disorders
Stomach ulcers, Hyper acidity and constipation are some of the digestive disorders that can be treated with Acupuncture.
Acupuncture for Kids
Most childhood disorders (from colic to teething to asthma) respond very well to acupuncture.
In order to diagnose accurately, the Acupuncturist interviews the patient about their health complaint and their relevant history. They also feel the pulse and examine the tongue. Following this interview a few acupuncture needles will be inserted along the relevant meridians. The client is asked to lie down for 20 to 40 minutes. In most cases a treatment lasts approximately one hour. A follow up appointment is scheduled depending on the patient’s condition. As in any other form of healing, there is not a magic cure or a golden point that instantly will transform your condition and ailment. Patience and being persistent, are the keys for success.
Be well and stay healthy!
Yair Sagy, Licensed Acupuncturist