Acupuncture Theory

Acupuncture originated in China, and is an important component in Traditional Chinese Medicine.

Acupuncture theory focuses on the flow of energy - called Qi - throughout the body by way of a system of meridians (sometimes referred to in the west as points or triggers).

According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, there are very specific points along this system that, when stimulated, assist in the treatment of pain and illness.

Part of acupuncture theory suggests that as partial and full blockages of a person's Qi (pronounced chi) occur, it will interrupt the smooth flow of the energy, and this is when an illness or injury may occur.

Qi Flow

According to acupuncture theory, the flow of Qi throughout the body is very similar to that of the circulatory and nervous systems.

Acupuncture Needles

Acupuncture requires the use of very small, disposable, stainless steel needles in order to stimulate a person's meridians.

As stimulation occurs, the blockages are reduced or removed.

This allows the Qi to flow smoothly once more, which in turn assists the body in healing itself.

The number of treatments required will depend upon the severity of the symptoms and underlying problem.

Acupuncture theory, as well as all Traditional Chinese Medicine, seeks to treat the whole body as opposed to focusing on only one or two areas.

In this manner, chronic pain is often viewed by an acupuncturist as a symptom of a larger underlying problem.

Following acupuncture theory, an acupuncturist will seek out and treat the underlying issue as well as offer pain management.

This explains why patients who have used acupuncture as an alternative to conventional medicine often have fewer instances of recurring symptoms.

Theory of Acupuncture versus Western Medicine

Acupuncture theory is often in sharp contrast with Western medical practices and standard treatments.

Indeed, in chronic cases, acupuncture does not put the primary focus on pain management like many Western treatments.

Occasionally, following acupuncture theory, herbal poultices, liniments, and ointments may be used to facilitate and speed healing, but prescription drugs and narcotics are not recommended.

Also, acupuncture theory holds true that people may experience the same illness in different ways, and so individual treatment plans are constructed.

It is not unusual for two people with the same symptoms to be given completely different acupuncture treatment.

Recent Popularity of Acupuncture Treatment

While acupuncturists will always hold true to acupuncture theory during treatment, with the rising popularity of acupuncture in the past few decades acupuncturists are now often very receptive to working together with a doctor practicing a more conventional form of medicine in order to fully meet the patient's medical needs.

Western doctors have begun to realize the benefits of acupuncture as well and often refer patients for acupuncture treatment.