Alternative forms of medicine have seen a surge in popularity in recent years. That is partly due in part to traditional medicine not being as effective as advertised. As such, individuals often seek to find treatment from unorthodox sources.
Treatment can come in the form of processes such as hypnotherapy or through the application of CBD oil, both of which have been proven to assist in treating issues in a positive way.
Acupuncture is another form of alternative medicine that has become widespread in its usage. The act of inserting tiny needles into certain areas of the body has actually helped in some fashion, as reported by some empirical studies.
Here are six interesting acupuncture facts and its various health benefits:
Fact #1: Acupuncture has a historical foundation
Acupuncture may be synonymous with alternative medicine, but don’t attribute that to its recent popularity. The practice dates back to approximately 100 B.C. China and has been applied in various medicinal capacities since.
The word itself was derived in the seventeenth century, with “acu” translating to “needle” and “punura” translating to “to prick.” The treatment, when introduced to the western world, grew in popularity and was used to supplement more science-based medicinal practices.
As a result of its proven effectiveness in the medical field, the World Health Organization (WHO) formalized a report on its treatment. However, they also stated that more research needed to be conducted for future usage.
Fact #2: The acupuncture needles are very small
The entire process of acupuncture may initially dissuade many people largely due in part to the visual of it all. Most individuals think that the method of inserting needles into various parts of the body is evocative of a horror movie.
In short, it’s not. In fact, calling them needles in the first place does a disservice to the tools actually being used. They are actually very tiny in composition, and look more like bristles found on a hair brush.
The needles used in acupuncture are very thin and malleable as well. When they do penetrate your skin, you will sometimes feel nothing or, at most, a minor prick. You don’t have anything to fear!
Fact #3: Acupuncture is backed by science
One of the principal reasons why acupuncture is still considered an alternative form of medicine is because of its foundations in Chinese medicine.
In regards to the practice, the Chinese often spoke of “qi,” which is pronounced as “chi.” This translated to “life force,” which was believed to flow throughout the body. When qi was blocked, various health issues arose. As such, acupuncture was used to remove blockages to resume proper flowing of qi.
Although this may seem more anecdotal in nature, many studies backed by scientific evidence have proven acupuncture’s viability. For example, acupuncture used to treat back pain and headaches was proven to be the most effective, with research supporting this in every regard.
Fact #4: Acupuncture can relieve stress
Considered to be an excellent means of therapy as it is a form of alternative medicine, acupuncture does wonders for your health.
If you are searching for a procedure that allows you to relax your mind, you might want to give the process a shot. It is used to not just aid in physical recovery for the body, but also in calming your mental state and returning it to a healthy, neutral function.
Acupuncture is considered by many practitioners to be holistic in its application. Many individuals will come in for treatment in order to alleviate some physical issue. However, you’ll notice that your mental health can improve just as much after a session!
Fact #5: Everyone reacts differently to acupuncture
To get the full range of benefits from acupuncture, it is likely that more than one session will be needed. Although everyone’s body will react differently to the procedure, a positive response is more likely to be seen through prolonged treatment.
The positive effects of acupuncture are regarded to be cumulative, which build with each subsequent session. You should also acknowledge that each practitioner is different, and may use different styles and techniques during the procedure.
Each provider will have to assess you in a customized way in order to report on how many treatment sessions will be required. For the large majority, however, going for more than just one or two will result in some truly noticeable health benefits in the long run.
Fact #6: Acupuncture physicians vary in background
Although a practitioner of acupuncture doesn’t necessarily have to be a doctor, they should be qualified in some certifiable respect in order to practice. Some doctors and trained naturopaths do offer acupuncture services. However, it is critical to only go to those who are licensed.
Your health always comes first. You wouldn’t trust your wellbeing in the hands of a physical therapist who wasn’t certified, so the same logic applies to acupuncture as well! Although research is still being done on its effectiveness, acupuncture has widely been accepted as a positive form of alternative medicine.
Do not let your initial fear of needles deter you; the practice will work wonders on your health and reinvigorate you in a way that you’ve never experienced!
