Acupuncture started its developement
over 2000 years ago when the ancient Chinese noted that stimulating
certain points on the body surface affected other areas of
muscular or internal function.
They proposed a system of energy
which they called 'Qi' following in channels or 'meridians'
throughout the body to explain this. The acupuncture 'points'
lie on these lines, or 'electrical' channels, which run up
and down the body.
It is possible to have a point needled and to feel sensation
going along the channel or even in another part of the channel
altogether. Because of this we often see head pain treated
with points on the feet, and so on.
It does not matter whether Qi really exists as some kind
of energy or a representation of a complex expression of
nervous system stimulation and function. A demonstratable
effect is obtained. Maybe the most dramatic example of this
is using certain specific points on the limbs to completely
numb the abdomen or torso allowing surgeons in China to operate
without anaethesia or pain.
The fact is that the concept of Qi and channels is a good
framework to understand why acupuncture has the effect that
it does. It's analysis of how the human body responds to
the environment around it - climate, emotional stimuli, infectious
diseases, foods, etc. provides a 'model' of health and disease
which is still valid in modern times.
Acupuncture is the insertion of very fine needles (usually
between 4 and 10) into selected points on the body to alter
or enhance body function.
Acupuncture is increasingly being used in the West and is
found in many hospital pain clinics as a major modality to
control chronic pain, and 'trigger point' (myofascial pain
syndrome) acupuncture is used by some GPs and osteopaths/physiotherapists
on certain types of muscular and joint pain.
Acupuncturists can treat many chronic and acute conditions. Please phone to speak to one of our practitioners to find out more.
The number of treatments needed depends on how long you've
had the problem, how 'deep' or serious the condition is,
and on age and constitution.
For further information contact the Association of British
Acupuncture Council (BAcC) |