Acupuncture is the practice of medical healing through the use of very fine tiny needles which are inserted just under the skin in order to help the body heal itself. Acupuncture has its origins in China and has been practiced for over 4000 years. The practice of acupuncture has spread throughout the world for thousands of years with great success.
Acupuncture is now being used with greater and greater frequency here in the USA, where its benefits are being noted by hospitals, doctors, and the lay press and television personalities such as Oprah. Unlike traditional medical or drug therapy, acupuncture has no side effects.
The basic oriental premise of how acupuncture works is that the body functions best and is at its healthiest when its energy flow (Qi) is normal. When Qi energy flow is blocked or obstructed, illness occurs. The use of acupuncture will re-balance our energy by unblocking the obstructions, and the free flow of Qi energy again will enable our bodies to heal naturally, without side-effects.
Western medicine is now more accepting of the ability of acupuncture to help healing, and sees acupuncture as a complementary or alternative form of medical healing. In addition to the oriental concepts, we now know that acupuncture causes the release of a number of neuro-chemical transmitter chemicals from the brain and central nervous system. These chemicals, which are measurable in our blood, play a major role in decreasing and relieving pain and significantly improving our emotional states, like anxiety and depression.
The number of treatments needed to complete the healing process varies with the individual, the type and length of illness, and the age and general condition of the patient. Since illness occurs over a period of time, cures can take varying amounts of time. Some people respond more quickly, others may take several months to heal. For more information on acupuncture and the treatment of specific conditions, please go to Dr. Magner’s Published Articles. |
