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The Benefits of Acupuncture Therapy

Acupuncture therapy originated over 2,000 years ago in China. Ancient Chinese practitioners viewed acupuncture as a way to balance the flow of the human body. Slowly acupuncture began to show up in Japan and Korea, and then became common practice all over Asia. Over the past several decades it has become a popular practice in the United States. Larger cities in the United States now have an acupuncture practitioner.

Acupuncture Therapy Defined

The word acupuncture can be intimidating for someone who does not fully understand what it is. Acupuncture is simply the insertion of extremely thin needles into specific parts of the body in order to relieve certain medical aliments. Some scientists believe that the placement of the tiny needles into the body causes the body to produce more of its own natural pain killers.

Many people who suffer from chronic pain or other conditions that have not improved with modern medicine often turn to acupuncture therapy. Those who have experienced an acupuncture session claim that they feel energized immediately after, and they also report a decrease in their symptoms.

Ailments that Acupuncture Helps

There are many debates and controversy over what ailments acupuncture can help. Some scientists believe that acupuncture in no way helps alleviate symptoms, and balk at the idea of it. However, studies have shown that patients receiving acupuncture therapy have experienced relief. Acupuncture has been shown to help with these conditions:

  • migraines
  • menstrual cramps
  • low back pain
  • labor pain
  • dental pain
  • osteoarthritis
  • tennis elbow
  • fibromyalgia
  • anxiety
  • drug detoxification
  • muscle spasms
  • insomnia
  • allergies
  • constipation
  • urinary incontinence

Risk Involved with Acupuncture Therapy

As with any medical treatment, there are risks involved with acupuncture therapy. It is important to research a practitioner who is licenses and experienced. The American Academy of Medical Acupuncture has a database of licensed acupuncture practitioners. Having an experienced practitioner can reduce the risks of serious side effects. Side effects and risks can include the following:

  • soreness and bruising at injection site
  • possibility to contract an infectious disease
  • minor bleeding
  • feeling lightheaded
  • nausea
  • rashes

Acupuncture therapy has been a time-honored method of treatment in Asia for thousands of years. Now this profound method of treatment has increased in popularity in the United States. It is important to remember to consult with a licensed health care provider before beginning any type of acupuncture therapy. Selecting the right practitioner is very critical to ensuring a pleasant experience. Weigh all the risks and benefits to determine if acupuncture is the correct option.

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