Acupuncture can provide relief from different types of pain when combined with other treatments. It is a process where thin needles are inserted into the skin to stimulate the release of endorphins that aid in pain relief. The frequency of acupuncture treatments may vary depending on the severity of your condition since different people experience results at different times. Although acupuncture can help reduce pain and boost a person’s wellbeing, many people have raised concerns regarding its safety as a form of treatment. This article gives an in-depth view of how acupuncture works, its benefits, and what experts have to say about its safety.
An Overview of Acupuncture
Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine and an ancient treatment practice that is believed to restore the energy flow to its proper balance. While there is no scientific proof that acupuncture points exist, they are seen as places where the nerves, connective tissue, and muscles can be stimulated. Stimulation of these points triggers natural pain relievers and increases the flow of blood throughout the body. The treatment involves inserting thin needles through the skin at various depths and specific points on the body. Chinese medicine believes that acupuncture works by balancing the vital energy in your system while most scientists and Western medical doctors believe that it has a neurological effect in the body.
Is Acupuncture Safe for Treatment?
If you have never tried acupuncture before, chances are that you are probably worried about the risks involved with inserting thin needles in your skin. However, people who are used to it may find it normal and can willingly submit themselves to the session of poking and prodding. Acupuncture is only considered safe if done by a licensed specialist who is highly trained and experienced to administer such treatment. Before the needles are removed at the end of the session, your acupuncturist will do an examination to check your overall health from an emotional and physical perspective.
When done right, acupuncture can help reduce nausea, lower back pain, and improve your body’s natural defenses. An experienced acupuncturist needs to be gentle and careful when inserting the needles at different points of your body. It is always important to raise any concerns you might have regarding the procedure so that your acupuncturist can personalize the treatment to suit your needs.
Benefits of Acupuncture
Acupuncture is considered safe when done correctly and offers many benefits that help improve your overall wellbeing. It helps to control some types of pain such as lower back pain, knee pain, osteoarthritis, and migraines. It is mainly used to relieve discomfort associated with different illnesses and conditions. Acupuncture boosts your overall immune system, reduces stress, and enhances your mental clarity. Stimulating the nerves, muscles, and connective tissue reduces sluggishness and most people usually experience a surge of increased energy after the session.
What are the Risks?
One of the possible risks of acupuncture is that it can be dangerous if you are taking blood thinners or you have a bleeding disorder. Soreness, bleeding, and bruising might also occur at the insertion sites and unsterilized needles can cause infection. There is a risk of a collapsed lung if the needles are inserted deeper into the chest or the upper back. However, these risks may happen in very rare circumstances since professional acupuncturists are trained to use the right procedure when administering this treatment.
Finding the Right Acupuncturist
To find the right acupuncturist, consider asking for recommendations from the people you trust or those who have experienced it before. It is important to choose a licensed acupuncturist with professional training and credentials. Before you go in for the session, take some time to interview your practitioner and raise any concerns you might have regarding the treatment.
This is highly recommended because your doctor may discuss with you the success rate of using acupuncture for your condition and recommend for you some of the best practitioners. Consider taking a hot shower and drink a lot of water afterward to get the most out of your session.
It is important to keep in mind that every acupuncture practitioner has a unique style and may combine different aspects from both traditional Chinese medicine and Western approaches to medicine. The number of acupuncture treatments is based on the condition being treated and its level of severity. Many people feel relaxed and energized after the session because acupuncture works to boost your immune system and restore the flow of energy to its proper balance.