The number of people who have received acupuncture treatment is growing every day – it’s a thriving field, and it fits perfectly with the natural wellness plan that many people are now seeking. There are, however, still a great number of people who haven’t tried or even considered trying this form of treatment. If you’re one of those people, check out this list of five reasons why acupuncture is worth a try!
1. It’s natural
There’s no doubt that pharmaceutical drugs and invasive surgery have revolutionized healthcare, and these things do a great deal of good. But they also have the potential to be ineffective, and even to do harm. Doctors usually hold surgery as a last resort, and are becoming more strict about the prescriptions they write – this is for good reason. As the long-term health effects of drugs and surgery become clearer, people are seeking alternatives in greater numbers. Acupuncture is a drug-free, surgery-free way to treat and improve many different conditions.
2. It’s ancient
Acupuncture originated in China and has been around a long time. There are differing opinions on just old acupuncture is – but it’s been in use for at least two thousand years. While many of the basic tenants of acupuncture have gone unchanged during this time, it’s worth noting that the practice has evolved considerably – and continues to evolve with each passing year.
3. It has helped countless people
If there were no documented evidence to support the effectiveness of professional acupuncture treatment, the practice would have died out a long time ago. The reality is that countless people have experienced significant – and in some cases life-changing – benefits as a result of acupuncture treatment. Reading about the real-life experiences is a great way to see for yourself how the practice has helped people.
4. It doesn’t have side effects
Obviously, receiving a treatment or treatments from someone who is not qualified or properly experienced is totally undesirable. In such cases, side effects could theoretically result. But acupuncture is known for being an incredibly gentle (yet effective) treatment for a whole range of conditions, from arthritis to anxiety. Side effects are virtually known in the world of professional acupuncture – but the benefits are real. That’s because acupuncture is, in large part, a way to stimulate the body’s natural healing mechanisms.
5. Many insurance plans cover it
This is one of the things people are most surprised by: Depending on your insurance plan and your reasons for seeking acupuncture treatment, it may be covered. If not, it’s worth noting that acupuncture treatment is generally very affordable, even when patients are required to pay out of pocket. Check with your insurance plan to see if acupuncture is covered, and in what context. You may not have to pay out of pocket at all.
Finding the right practitioner
As with any healing art, acupuncturists come in all stripes. Your best bet is to find someone who is experienced, highly qualified, and reputable in your community. You should also feel free to ask all the questions you want before your first treatment session, in order to ascertain whether or not you want to move forward with the a given practitioner. Remember that acupuncture isn’t a ‘magic bullet’ – but with a dedicated course of treatment, a huge number of health problems can be alleviated. Good luck with your first acupuncture experience, and be sure to let other people know about your experience!