What is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture, a key element of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), involves inserting thin needles into the skin at strategic points on the body. While it is most commonly used to alleviate pain, it is also employed for overall wellness.
TCM is a medical system developed over thousands of years, focusing on preventing, diagnosing, and treating diseases by restoring balance within the body. Central to this practice is the concept of “Qi”, also known as vital force or energy, which flows through pathways or channels in the body known as meridians. Based on TCM principles, if Qi is disrupted or blocked, it can lead to illness or an imbalance between Yin and Yang.
Various TCM approaches, including acupuncture, are used to create harmony between Yin and Yang and recover the correct flow of energy through meridians. Acupuncture aims to rebalance this energy by stimulating specific points along the meridians, thereby improving the flow of Qi and restoring health.
The human body has over 2000 acupuncture points connected by various meridians. Stimulating these points helps to release stagnant or blocked Qi, recover Qi movement, and encourage the body to release natural chemicals that combat existing symptoms or diseases.
Additionally, acupuncture targets nerves, muscles, and connective tissue, which can boost the body’s natural painkillers and relieve health conditions or alleviate pain symptoms. The overall goal of acupuncture is to restore harmony, promoting better health and well-being.
Conditions That Can Be Treated with Acupuncture
Acupuncture can help to ease the pain and discomfort associated with specific diseases and medical conditions, including but not limited to:
- Post-operation or chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting
- Dental pain and jaw pain
- Fibromyalgia
- Tension headaches
- Labour pain
- Menstrual cramps
- Menopause and hot flashes
- Respiratory disorders like allergic rhinitis and asthma
- Carpal tunnel syndrome and tennis elbow
- Stroke rehabilitation
- Certain digestive, musculoskeletal, neurological, or respiratory diseases
- Muscle pain
- Knee pain
- Sports-related injuries
- Face pain and other nerve discomfort
- Immune system problems
- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
- Fatigue
- Addiction
Key Benefits of Acupuncture
Benefits of Acupuncture in Pain Management
For those suffering from long-term chronic pain or other health conditions, acupuncture helps with managing symptoms by providing relief. It is a versatile form of treatment that can be used as a complementary therapy to target health concerns. Acupuncture can help to treat persistent pain by reducing the frequency and intensity of the pain, resulting in less pain relief medicine needed. Studies have shown that acupuncture helps alleviate symptoms of the following medical conditions:
- Back pain
- Neck pain
- Osteoarthritis
- Headaches
- Migraines
- Myofascial pain
- Sciatica
- Postoperative pain
- Chronic lower back pain
- Frozen shoulder
Benefits of Acupuncture for Emotional Health
Acupuncture for Sleep
Acupuncture is an effective treatment for insomnia, fatigue, and poor sleep quality. By targeting key acupuncture points, such as Shenmen (神门, HT7) and Yintang (印堂, EX-HN3), affiliated with physical and emotional well-being, the treatment helps us relax our body and mind, enhance our sleep quality, and boost our energy levels. Acupuncture also helps regulate the body’s circadian rhythm, leading to better sleep patterns, quality, quantity, and overall metabolism. Over time, our sleep improves, which helps us cope more effectively with stress.
Acupuncture for Stress Relief
Acupuncture effectively reduces stress and soothes the nervous system by increasing circulation and releasing serotonin and endorphins. It promotes relaxation, balances the body’s Qi, and restores harmony to the mind, body, and spirit. Acupuncture reduces cortisol levels, alleviating physical symptoms of stress such as headaches, muscle tension, and digestive issues. It also helps to regulate the stress response, fostering better emotional control, relaxation, and overall well-being.
Acupuncture for Mental Health
Acupuncture treatments can slightly decrease the severity of anxiety and depression by addressing internal imbalances that result in mental health issues. This TCM therapy stimulates the production of serotonin and other mood-enhancing neurotransmitters in your brain, aiding in improving your mood and reducing anxious feelings. Furthermore, it can alleviate physical symptoms of anxiety, minimise muscle tension, slow down your heart rate, and boost digestive function, promoting calm and peace of mind.
Frequently Asked Questions about Acupuncture
Is acupuncture safe?
Yes, acupuncture is safe when performed by a trained, licensed, and qualified TCM physician. To ensure your safety, they will only use disposable, single-use needles.
Can acupuncture be used with other treatments?
Yes, it is safe to receive acupuncture even if you are undergoing other treatments. Acupuncture can be a complementary therapy alongside conventional treatments and prescription drugs. If you are unsure, you should always check with a licensed TCM physician or doctor.
Are there risks or complications of acupuncture?
When performed by a qualified professional, acupuncture has few complications or side effects. However, you should immediately notify your TCM physician if you feel pain or discomfort during your session.
How long does it take to see acupuncture’s results?
That will depend on your current health condition and your body’s recovery rate. Some people may experience acupuncture’s benefits within the first few days after the first session, while others only experience it a few days or weeks later.
Are there any signs to indicate acupuncture is working?
If you notice you have been experiencing less pain, improved sleep patterns, and a heartier appetite, those are just a few signs that you benefit from acupuncture’s effects.
Who should avoid acupuncture?
Those with bleeding disorders, diabetes or a metal allergy should avoid acupuncture as a health precaution. You should always consult a licensed TCM or medical professional beforehand, especially if you are pregnant or have an underlying condition.
Acupuncture in Singapore
If you have always been curious about the advantages of acupuncture, why not give it a go? At Liang Yi TCM, our practitioners provide personalised holistic solutions for your health and well-being. Experience the benefits of acupuncture for yourself, and contact us today to book an appointment.
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