Understanding Acupuncture: Balancing Yin and Yang
The theory behind acupuncture is that your body has two opposing and interdependent forces called yin and yang. These forces must be balanced to achieve optimal health. When they are not in balance, it is because there is a blockage in the flow of your qi: the energy believed to regulate your spiritual, emotional, mental, and physical health. This imbalance is thought to be the cause of illness, and acupuncture is used to remove these blockages.
The ancient art and science of acupuncture have been used in Asia for centuries to treat various conditions and relieve pain. It is now used in Canada and other Western countries to alleviate lower back pain, nerve pain (such as the painful rashes of shingles), headaches, fibromyalgia, menstrual cramps, and more.
Acupuncture involves the insertion of extremely thin needles into the skin at specific "acupuncture points." Typically, I insert 4 to 16 needles and leave them in place for 15 to 30 minutes while you rest. In my acupuncture practice, I start with an initial 75-minute treatment that includes an assessment and treatment. I then prescribe a treatment plan with follow-up appointments. A usual treatment course consists of 4 to 8 sessions over one or two months.
Depending on the nature, intensity, and duration of the illness, significant changes in your health status may take more or less time to manifest.
Main Models of Acupuncture for Pain Relief
Gate Control Theory of Pain: It is believed that acupuncture stimulates inhibitory nerve fibers for a short period, thereby reducing the transmission of pain signals to the brain.
Endorphin Model: Clinical studies have shown that inserting acupuncture needles into specific points on the body triggers the production of endorphins, which help alleviate pain.
Neurotransmitter Model: Animal research has shown that acupuncture can balance brain neurons and the chemicals serotonin and norepinephrine to help treat depression, anxiety, and addiction.
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