FOODS WE EAT - CURE IN NATURE

Thursday, 25th of August 2011

Acupuncture is an alternative therapy that has been used for thousands of years to encourage the body to heal itself. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), acupuncture points are located along pathways which run along the body where qi (energy) flows. In Western science, studies have shown that the majority of acupuncture points are located at trigger points, near endings of nerves, in the area of peripheral nerves and motor points. Following a treatment, a variety of substances are released into the body such as endorphins, serotonin and neuropeptides/neurotransmitters to help relieve pain and aid in relaxation. Sterilized one time use disposable needles are used to stimulate the points treating various health conditions, relieving pain and restoring overall health.

How does Acupuncture help for Pain?

Reduces pain by releasing endorphins which are natural pain killers produced by the bodyReduces swellingRelaxes the muscles and relieves spasmsDecreases inflammationmproves blood circulationIncreases local microcirculation to help heal injuries by attracting white blood cells to the area and decrease swelling/bruising

What is Electroacupuncture (EA)?

Similar to acupuncture but it involves the use of a portable device with electrode clips attached to the needles. These small electrodes stimulate the acupuncture points giving pulsating sensations at different intensities and frequencies.

According to Acupuncture Today, a popular journal for acupuncturists:
“Electroacupuncture is quite similar to traditional acupuncture in that the same points are stimulated during treatment. As with traditional acupuncture, needles are inserted on specific points along the body. The needles are then attached to a device that generates continuous electric pulses using small clips. These devices are used to adjust the frequency and intensity of the impulse being delivered, depending on the condition being treated. Electroacupuncture uses two needles at time so that the impulses can pass from one needle to the other. Several pairs of needles can be stimulated simultaneously, usually for no more than 30 minutes at a time.”

EA enhances the therapeutic effects of acupuncture and is most effective for pain conditions when used in the earlier stages of pain conditions.

View the original article here