Acupuncture is often referred to as the ancient practice. So, just how ancient are we talking? It originated roughly 2,000 years ago in China. Put another way, it has been around for roughly ten times the United States.



To survive 2,000 years, it should be no surprise that acupuncture is a readily accepted medical technique. In fact, it is one of the most popular procedures in the world. Although now accepted in the West, this is only the case as of the latter 20th century.

You might be surprised to learn that acupuncture is about energy balance. The inherent energy in your body, known as qi, is considered central to your health. When it goes out of balance, you get disease, health problems and pain.

To bring the body into balance, acupuncture use those thin needles you have seen in the movies. Drama aside, the needles are designed to access energy focal points under the skin. These points are then treated by manipulating the needles.

The mention of needles penetrating the skin will make some people faint. Easy does it. The needles are hair thin. Most people feel no pain at all. Those that do feel only the tiniest of sensations. Even people afraid of needles enjoy acupuncture.

Ah, but are the needles a danger in and of themselves? No. The FDA regulates them. They are known as one use needles. They come out of sterile packaging, are used and then are thrown out. This eliminates any concerns.

So, does acupuncture actually produce results for patients? It seems there are a lot of questionable things being offered to the public these days. The truth is acupuncture produces better results in certain situations versus others.

Chronic pain is a crippler for many people. The pain is bad, but the tub of medications is nearly as bad. The good news is acupuncture is readily accepted as a great helper in pain management. Many people are able to eliminate most if not all of their medications.

In addition to pain management, acupuncture has been shown to be helpful in other areas. These areas include, but are not limited to, treatment of addiction, headaches, fibromyalgia, osteoarthritis, and chemotherapy nausea and vomiting to mention a few.

The days of Eastern and Western medicine being in opposition are over. If you are suffering from disease and are not finding relief, a consultation with an acupuncture therapist makes sense and could be the key to managing your pain.