One of the major excuses people use to explain away trying
Acupuncture is that they are afraid of needles. I have also heard “It is out of date” and “All it’s good for
is pain relief, just like Tylenol.”
The truth is most people are just scared to try Acupuncture,
and are not sure how it actually works.
Originally a traditional Chinese medicine, Acupuncture is
based on the belief that what happens in one part of the body affects the
entire body. It works by reestablishing a healthy energy flow (or Qi –
pronounced chee) throughout a person’s body. A person’s Qi travels along
meridians throughout the body that come in contact with the skin at over 300
different acupuncture points. When these points are obstructed it can cause an
imbalance in a person’s body, leading to pain, sleepless nights, stomach
problems and more. An Acupuncturist stimulates or directs these blocked points
in order to restore the balance. This is done by inserting about 2 - 8 incredibly thin needles into certain points on the body. They are then left in
for about 20 to 30 minutes. This is the part that makes everyone so nervous,
but don’t worry, these needles are so thin that most people feel nothing at
all, if only a slight prick. They
are also sterile and disposable, and have been approved by the FDA. On another
note, if you come into the appointment complaining of back pain, don’t be
surprised if the Acupuncturist puts a needle in your ankle or somewhere else
seemingly unrelated. As I
mentioned, what happens in one part of the body affects the whole body, and the
place where pain is being felt might not be the culprit.
Acupuncture is most commonly used for pain relief. People
suffering from arthritis, sciatica, fibromyalgia, tennis elbow, knee pain, neck
pain, etc., could benefit greatly from this type of therapy. It can also help
people who suffer from migraines, digestive issues, insomnia, depression and
can help with weight loss. Acupuncture helps these conditions by stimulating
the circulatory and the immune system. This then releases endorphins into the
body helping to stop the pain and correct chemical imbalances.
Finally, as is the case with all therapy, each person is
different and will require a different treatment. This could mean needing
acupuncture once or twice a week for a month or two for the best outcome. Acupuncture is not a replacement for
medications, but rather it is a fantastic compliment to your physician’s
already prescribed treatments, and can greatly help those little ailments you
are sick of dealing with on a daily basis. Our expert Acupuncturist Jaret Sahr
will also offer advice on vitamins and supplements that could help restore you and
your body to a healthy balance.
Still have questions or don’t know if you can get over your
Acupuncture phobia? Visit our website http://www.goodyearhealth.com/health/acupuncture.aspx
or feel free to arrange a time to drop by and chat with Jaret!
