Important Points About Acupuncture and How it is Performed!

Western doctors and scientists have specific theories regarding acupuncture and its effectiveness. They do believe that stimulating an acupuncture point causes the release of opiates called endorphins within the brain. These natural substances may reduce an individual's perception of pain perhaps as effectively as any combination of narcotics and with the added plus of zero side effects commonly associated with the narcotics. This theory is supported by the fact that when experimental animals were given a chemical called naloxone which blocks endorphins, these animals do not respond to acupuncture. It is pretty much understand that acupuncture points reveal a greater concentration of nerve endings than do other skin locations. These specific points also generate more of what is referred to as electromagnetic energy.

The process when visiting an acupuncturist is somewhat different than the conventional doctor visit. Before anyone sticks you with a needle, the acupuncturist will first examine your pulse. This pulse examination is quite different from what most of us are used to. The acupuncturist will work on a reading which may be a process that may take anywhere from several minutes to possibly a couple hours. The reader places three fingers on one wrist then three fingers on the other wrist feeling for nine pulses on each side. This will total eighteen pulses resulting in a reading of different characteristics. These characteristics determine one's results and then a diagnosis is determined. The pulse itself however, can be influenced by many different factors. Some of these factors may be the time of day, sex, temperature, humidity, or the particular season.

Once the acupuncturist has a diagnosis, you are ready to be needled. The needles used are normally straight and quite thin. They are as thin as hair and can be from a fraction of an inch to several inches in length. Most needles are made of stainless steel or copper. Sometimes, they may be made of gold, silver, bamboo, or wood. Another tool used is a staple. This is round, made of metal with a tiny needle at its end. This is attached to the ear and can be left in this position for a number of weeks. These are used to control the appetite, break a bad habit, or put an end to an addiction. Whatever is used, needles or staples, be sure they are sterile and disposable. You want positive assurance you're safe from any transmission of diseases.

Depending on your individual disorder, the acupuncturist will generally place up to twelve needles into your body about one quarter of an inch deep. He or she will gently twirl or twist them by hand for about fifteen minutes. The needles may also be activated by a weak electrical current or heated. More modern techniques involve stimulating the acupuncture points with sound and or light waves.

Acupuncture doesn't hurt but may leave a slight ache at the point of entrée. Some compare the sensation to that of a mosquito bite. Many claim a sense of tingling or buzzing. The number of sessions one attends will depend on the condition being treated. Some individuals will visit maybe twice while others may visit on a consistent basis. Acupuncture appears to be safe as long as the needles are sterile and disposable. While no significant risk is involved and if the procedure helps your condition, how can it be a disadvantage? If it works for you, take full advantage.