Six Myths About Acupuncture

By on October 28, 2012

Acupuncture is an Eastern medicine practice that has been around for centuries. This medical technique uses very thin needles placed at specific points on the body to improve a person’s health. Acupuncture is used to alleviate chronic pain, strengthen the immune system and help smokers quit smoking. The use of acupuncture has increased over time, but people still have many misconceptions about it. Here are a few of the myths surrounding acupuncture.

Acupuncture is Painful

There is no pain involved in acupuncture, but this does not mean that patients will not feel anything as the needles are inserted. The needles are very thin. Most patients experience slight pressure, a prick or a dull, aching sensation. People who have never had an acupuncture treatment often misinterpret these feelings as pain. While this procedure is not painful, in certain situations, some patients may experience light bruising.

Only People in Pain Benefit from Acupuncture

While acupuncture is used treat pain, it also has many other uses. The goal of the procedure is to restore the body’s harmony and balance. It treats the whole body. It is also used to treat conditions like insomnia, digestive issues and fatigue. There are many apps available that provide a comprehensive look at acupuncture, acupuncture points and what acupuncture can heal.

Acupuncture is Not Performed by Licensed Professionals

When acupuncture was first introduced in the West, it was not regulated. Now, acupuncturists are licensed and need to undergo at least three years of training in a graduate-level program and pass several certification exams. They are also required to adhere to an ethics code and take continuing education courses to remain certified.

Needles are Necessary for Acupuncture

Needles are the most commonly used instruments in acupuncture, but there are other methods available. These methods include aculaser, gauSha, acupressure and acustim. Aculaser involves directing a cold laser at the acupoints. Acustim uses a light, electrical current on the points. GauSha and acupressure uses rubbing pressure wither around or on the acupoints. These methods are alternatives for patients who are not fans of needles.

Acupuncture Only Provides a Placebo Effect

There are some skeptics that feel that acupuncture only works because the recipients receiving the treatment believe it works. While having a positive mindset does not hurt, it has nothing to do with the effectiveness of the treatment. There are numerous studies that show acupuncture’s effects on blood flow, the immune system and blood pressure. The acupuncture points have also been tested. Needles that were not placed at the correct acupoints showed dramatically lower healing results than those placed in the correct positions.

Covered by Insurance

This procedure was once one that insurance companies would not cover. Recently, more insurance companies are covering the treatments. Coverage is not guaranteed by all insurance companies. Anyone interested in acupuncture should find out if their policy covers the procedure.

Acupuncture has been around for centuries. While more information is known about this type of medicine, there are still many myths about it. Hopefully, having a better understanding of the treatment will encourage more people to consider it.

This post was provided by Whitney Forest, a acupuncture patient. She recommends the European Massage Center to her friends to try acupuncture and massage Mississauga.

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