Acupuncture Demystified
image from unsplash
Because acupuncture originated in China, a culture so distinctly different to our own, there is so much that can be ‘lost in translation’. So, let’s clear up some of those key misconceptions.
Acupuncture works on the nerves. True or False?
An acupuncturist’s goal is to restore balance to your vital force (‘chi’ in Chinese). Think of your body as a landscape covered by an interconnected river system. In acupuncture these rivers are called ‘meridians’ and instead of carrying water they carry your vitality. Acupuncture points act like gates controlling the flow of this precious vitality. If one part of the landscape is flooded, whilst another parched then simply redirecting water/vitality away from the flooded to the parched area would be the simplest way to restore balance.
This one is false (acupuncture works on vitality/chi not on the nerves)
Acupuncture is painful
Needles, ouch right? Not when it comes to acupuncture! At 1/5 of a millimeter, the needles used are incredibly fine and when placed skillfully by a trained acupuncturist most needles will be inserted with minimal discomfort or even without you noticing. Many people say to me “was that it?” or “did you put it in already?”
This one is false (Note: acupuncture is different to ‘dry needling’ used by physios which is often quite painful)
Acupuncture is a kind of folk medicine
Acupuncture emerged in China around 3000 years ago and its origins are steeped in the ancient folk medicine of that era. Over the subsequent thousands of years, the essential principles of acupuncture have been distilled and systematized so that the knowledge that was once fiercely guarded and only passed from one family member to another is now taught at universities.
This one is true (modern acupuncture has its origin in ancient folk medicine)
Acupuncture is just for pain
Yes, acupuncture is great for treating pain, it’s still one of the main reasons patients seek acupuncture out. However, the next most popular reason people come for acupuncture is to tackle stress. If you consider all the possible benefits to your wellbeing arising from reduced stress levels, you can imagine the breadth of conditions acupuncture can help with.
Many people try acupuncture for a specific reason initially and then become regular clients who’ll have a regular ‘tune up’ because they apricate the overall feeling of wellbeing they experience after a treatment.
This one is false (for more information google ‘acupuncture evidence project’)
