Why Acupuncture?
The Origins of Acupuncture
Acupuncture originated in China around 3,500 years ago and is one of the most widely utilised healing systems in existence. In recent decades Acupuncture has become globally utilised and undergone rigorous clinical trials. The World Health Organisation now recommends acupuncture for over 100 common illnesses.
Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine is rooted in ancient Taoist philosophy, which views human beings as in correspondence with their external environment; nature, the changing seasons, and the elements. The Chinese medical model asserts that the human body is an organic whole, and that there exists an innate connection between all tissues and structures. Eastern Medicine views all dis-ease as imbalance and aims to harmonise our flow with nature, restoring homeostasis and balance.
How does it Work?
Acupuncture points are situated on ‘meridians’ or channels throughout the fascia of the body. Needling these points provides electromagnetic prompts and in turn influences the body’s biochemical responses via the nervous system.
When we are healthy energy or Qi flows freely through the body. Acupuncture releases any blockages or stagnation that may occur, thus improving circulation and organ function, as well as reducing pro-inflammatory markers in the body. MRI readings have been used to demonstrate that acupuncture prompts observable changes in the brain and thermal imaging has revealed that acupuncture reduces inflammation.
Acupuncture is effective in pain management where needle placement into areas of dense nervous tissue provides a signal to the brain to release endogenous opioids or natural pain-killing chemicals (eg: enkephalins, beta-endorphins, norepinephrine, acetylcholine, etc.). These ‘feel-good’ chemicals are effective in pain relief and when the pain subsides, the blood vessels dilate and deliver nutrients and oxygen to the affected area, allowing the area to heal naturally.