TCM Treatments Series: Acupuncture
In our TCM (Tranditional Chinese Medicine)series, we’ll be sharing insight into some of the major TCM treatments and answering frequently asked questions about them. One TCM method to cure diseases and restore balance is acupuncture.
TCM Philosophy
TCM believes a healthy body and mind is achieved through a free flow of vital energy (Qi) throughout the body. In TCM, the organs are interconnected and work together. An imbalance in one organ leads to disharmony in the whole body. That this why TCM aims at treating the person as a whole. The TCM doctor focuses on identifying the origin of the disease as well as it’s effect on other organs. After a detailed diagnosis, the doctor comes up with a natural treatment to restore balance in the whole body. The treatment often involves acupuncture.
How Acupuncture Works
Acupuncture is a healing method which consists of placing needles in the body, along the meridians. The meridians are the channels in which Qi flows and they connect the organs. Normally, they ensure a free flow of Qi so that the body can function properly. However, when a blockage arises, the flow of Qi is disturbed thus the organs do not get the proper amount of Qi they need to work as they should. This ultimately leads to global imbalances and eventually, disease.
The acupuncturist inserts needles, usually made of stainless steel and measuring from 13 to 70mm, on defined acupoints. The process helps restore a free flow of Qi so that is can nourish the tissues and organs in order to bring harmony to the body and relieve pain.
When is Acupuncture Used?
Acupuncture can be used in prevention of diseases and for curing a disease, but also for promoting health and well-bing. It is particularly efficient for digestive and respiratory disorders as well as for urinary, menstrual or reproductive disorders. It can also help with skin diseases and insomnia. Acupuncture is widely used for relieving pain from muscular or neurological disorders (headaches and migraines, neck pain, low back pain, etc.) and to help control the tension and stress. It also helps soothe the mind in cases of emotional issues or depression.
The world Health Organization has recognized acupuncture as a successful treatment method for various concerns. Western medicine proposes that acupuncture works because the needles stimulate the nervous system which generates the production of certain chemicals in the body. Those chemicals change the perception of pain or help the organs to regulate themselves.
Does Acupuncture Hurt?
Patients often worry about the pain. Every patient reacts differently but usually, acupuncture is not painful at all. Some people feel an unpleasant sensation when the needles get inserted but this goes away shortly when the needles are in place. Many people will tell you they feel very relaxed when receiving acupuncture, and quite a few patients fall asleep.
Acupuncture is an effective and natural way to restore balance and heal the body and mind. we will share more in our upcoming articles about some of the complementary treatments to acupuncture including moxibustion and cupping.
Contact us for a TCM consultation to find the best natural treatment for you! We offer services throughout Shanghai at clinics in downtown Puxi, Pudong, Jing’an and Hongqiao.