Acupuncture
From Drug Rehab Wiki
The practice of acupuncture has been around for thousands of years. The idea first started in China and was used as a technique for relieving pain and relaxation. The method has now spread to other countries, including the United States, and its popularity has been steadily growing.
According to the 2007 National Health Survey, approximately 3.1 million U.S. adults and 150,000 children had used acupuncture in the past year. The treatment used on adults increased by three-tenths of one percent (approximately 1 million people) between 2002 and 2007.
The idea of acupuncture began on the basis of the beliefs of the energy “qi”. Qi circulates through the body in meridians, or invisible energy lines. Scientists suggest there are about 14 different channels set in a web-like formation, creating about 2,000 acupuncture points.
The belief of qi also deals with the two forces: yin and yang. Yin depicts cold, slow and passive, while yang symbolizes hot, excited and active. The balance of these two components plays an important role in qi. If there is an imbalance of yin and yang, blockage in the flow of qi occurs, which is believed to cause diseases. Luckily, through acupuncture, qi can be unblocked.
Needles are inserted into specific points along the meridians. The needles help to restore the balance of qi. Not only is qi restored, acupuncture serves as a remedy for many other types of relief. It is reported to cure migraines, the common cold, addictions, arthritis, menstrual cramps, lower back pain, asthma and weight loss. The average session usually lasts between 20 and 30 minutes, depending on the type of treatment, and can be repeated for several weeks.
Although the treatment seems to help with many illnesses and addictions, there are some side effects to consider. Fortunately, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates the acupuncture needles that are used and makes sure they come in separate, sterile packages for each treatment. But, even though the utensils are regulated, there is still the risk of receiving treatment from non-sterile or improperly delivered needles; which can lead to infection or punctured organs.
The trend in acupuncture is spreading rapidly across the country, especially as individuals seek out alternative approaches to common conditions. Its special technique for relieving pain and curing certain illnesses has proven to be effective and as a result, has created appeal for a number of age groups. While not everyone will jump at the opportunity to insert needles into the body, when done correctly it is virtually painless and can be highly effective.
