What is acupuncture?
The word "Acupuncture" is derived from two Latin words: "acus" which means 'needle' and "punctura" which means 'to penetrate'. Thus, the literal translation of the word "acupuncture" is: 'to penetrate with a needle'. Acupuncture originated in China over 3,000 years ago and is now practiced worldwide.
The National Institutes of Health (NIH), the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Mayo Pain Clinic currently recognize acupuncture as a viable treatment for many different conditions. The NIH has a specialized department, which provides funding for research in areas of alternative medicine.
Acupuncture Modalities
- Acupuncture: the skillful placement of fine needles in specific acupoints throughout the body. This stimulus directs the body to reduce pain and help normalize bodily functions.
- Moxibustion: a cone or a stick made of artemisiae that is held over the skin until enough heat has been generated to stimulate an acupuncture point or affected part of the body.
- Fire Cupping: ceramic, glass or traditional bamboo cups, which are heated with fire to reduce the air pressure and create suction. The cups are placed on the skin along the acupuncture channels where there is stagnation.
- Moving Cups: the use of one or more cups moved along moistened skin as a form of massage for drawing toxins from the blood and helping to improve circulation.
If you'd like to find out how acupuncture may help your specific health problem, please give us a call.
Other modalities include acupressure, laser, sonopuncture (ultrasound) and electroacupuncture (electrical stimulation), which involves the placement of electric conducting pads and sending a low-frequency electric current through the targeted area.
Because of its acceptance in conventional medical settings, many insurance carriers, including health maintenance organizations (HMOs) and Workers' Compensation now cover acupuncture. Acupuncture may also be covered by your automobile insurance or personal injury claim. Check with your insurance carrier or attorney for more information.
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If you are interested in more information about the health benefits of acupuncture, please give us a call.
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