Portland Oregon Acupuncture

Acupuncture came from two Latin words ‘acus’ and ‘pungere’, which means ‘needle’ and ‘to prick’ consequently. This is a technique which involves insertion of fine needles into specific body points in order to relieve pain. It is mainly used as a form of therapy all over the world although it has been very popular in China for ages. Aside from China, acupuncture is practiced in Korea, Japan, Tibet, and Vietnam.

According to Chinese beliefs, the acupuncture points follow an equation because all the points are located along the vital energy or qi. Studies show that the meridians or acupuncture points are not based on histology or anatomy. The medical concepts of acupuncture are hard to merge with today’s biomedical information. Acupuncture plays a very important role in patient evaluation.

Acupuncture is usually associated with Traditional Chinese Medicine. Studies regarding acupuncture started in the 20th century and through the years, these techniques have remained controversial among clinicians and researchers. Last year, Edzard Ernst and some of his colleagues concluded the efficacy of acupuncture but only in certain conditions. According to prominent organizations like the World Health Organization and American Medical Association, acupuncture is generally safe but it should be administered by licensed and experienced practitioners.

Studies revealed that acupuncture has been used since the Stone Age (3000 BC). The needles used back then were made from sharpened stones. Archeologists were able to find stone needles in Mongolia and other places in China which existed in 202 BC to 220 AD during the time of the Han Dynasty.

In the Alps, a mummy was found which had 50 tattoos all over the body. The tattoos were strategically placed on the acupuncture points. Scientists believed that acupuncture was practiced 5,000 years ago. In Eurasia, the practice of acupuncture can be traced back to the Bronze Age. In 1911, there was a Revolution in China during this time Western Medicine was established. Herbalism and acupuncture declined considerably but the population of China was quite large, so less fortunate people still depended on the techniques. Barefoot doctors became popular during that time.

There was a time in Chinese history when leaders ridiculed acupuncture because they wanted to push their people to be dedicated to science. The leaders believed that progress can only be achieved through science. Mao Zedong reversed such position. He said that acupuncture is a treasure and should be placed on a higher respectable level. More research regarding acupuncture was conducted especially about the effects of the technique in different illnesses, the ancient texts, the effect on the internal organs, and about anesthesia.

Through the combined efforts of researches, TCM was created. The Chinese believed that acupuncture is a vital part of the TCM together with tui na, herbal medicines, as well as other modalities.

Acupuncture is included in the medical system of China since the 1970s. Continuous research is still being conducted about the efficacy of the technique.

In the US, acupuncture is widely recognized and there exists an association called the National Acupuncture Association (NAA). The technique was popularized in the west through research presentations and seminars. The very first legal clinic for acupuncture in the US was created in 1972 and Dr. Yao Wu Lee opened it in Washington DC

The acupuncture points are located on the 12 main meridians and another two in the 8 extra meridians. There are 14 channels through which blood or qi flow. Extra points exist but they don’t belong to any of the 14 channels and then there are the Ashi points or tender points.

The practitioner will first interview a patient and make careful observation. After the diagnosis, the TCM will be utilized. Diagnosis involves 4 methods – inspection, auscultation & olfaction, inquiring, and the palpation. Today, stainless steel fine needles are used in acupuncture. These needles are sterilized by autoclave or in ethylene oxide.

Now that you know where acupuncture originated and its degree of effectiveness, it’s for you to decide whether you use this alternative treatment. Keep in mind that this technique should be performed by experts, be very careful when choosing the right acupuncturist for you.

Acupuncture and Pregnancy

The world has already recognized the significant effects of acupuncture in treating individuals particularly women. Health issues, female disorders as well as pregnancy have all been shown to benefit from the traditional and modern modalities of the treatment. Find out how important and useful the approach can be in improving pregnancy possibilities and prenatal care.

For Fertility

Traditional acupuncture uses meridians and acupuncture points that correlate to major organs and systems in the body in order to restore health, minimize risk for disease and improve energy flow for wellness. The reproductive, immune and endocrine systems have been shown to significantly improve in function thereby posing a great possibility for treating infertility problems.

Acupuncture has been proven to improve blood flow to the ovaries and endometrium thereby enhancing the capability of women to bear and delivery babies successfully. Follicular function is improved as well as the lining and protection needed to support a growing fetus for months.

Acupuncture is used as an alternative form of treatment, complimentary treatment for medical fertility methods or stand alone. Functional problems seem to benefit more compared to structural problems. For example, if the infertility is caused by irregular ovulation or lack of follicle stimulating hormone or FSH production, acupuncture can treat it better by improving hormone levels.

Structural problems, such as damaged ovaries or sperm duct constriction may be more difficult to treat. Chinese herbs are usually indicated to enhance the stimulating effects. Some of the proven scientific benefits include higher testosterone levels and sperm count in men as well as regular ovulation and healthier egg cells in women.

For Healthier Moms

Women experience a lot of mental and physical problems and symptoms during pregnancy. Acupuncture was discovered to alleviate several of these by boosting energy and strength as well as improving an overall level of functioning and wellness.

Fatigue is commonly observed among moms as the growing fetus continues to use up calories and resources from the mother. Qi flowing right into different organs and systems will help maintain balance even if mothers are deprived of rest, nutrients and physical activity. Morning sickness is also commonly described as feelings of dizziness, nausea with vomiting and irritability.

Acupuncture will ensure that other systems will not be affected such as the stomach, spleen and kidneys. Extra weight can start to take its toll during the 2nd trimester so fatigue, strength energy levels and sleep disturbances can improve by needle application.

Specific organs have been considered essential in certain aspects of pregnancy and delivery. The spleen is stated to produce blood essential for better digestion and food absorption by both the mother and baby. The liver is vital for storing and circulating blood thereby balancing emotions and feelings. The kidneys store prenatal essence needed to support growth, development and reproduction.

For Healthier Babies

Several problems can stress the baby during pregnancy such as fluid imbalances in the amniotic sac, nutrient deficiencies, exposure of the mother to toxins and chemicals, stress and uncomfortable positions. Acupuncture usually incorporates the mugwort herb in an approach called moxibustion.

Several beneficial results will arise such as increased fetal activity, protection of the baby against infection, assumption of normal fetal presentation, reduction of stress, a more favorable fetal environment from uterine relaxation and increased blood flow and nutrients to the umbilical cord.

Better Labor and Delivery

Studies show that pregnant women who have undergone acupuncture treatments are more comfortable and less traumatized during childbirth. Babies also are more physically and mentally ready for the occasion due to adequate nutrients, normal stress levels and a healthy overall condition. Acupuncture is shown to diminish weak contractions while facilitating proper breathing techniques for the mother for a speedy and easier delivery. The approach can work very well with anesthetic procedures to reduce pain.

Women also report less side effects and adverse symptoms before, during and after delivery such as migraines, confusion, irritability, fatigue, bleeding, postpartum depression, postpartum bleeding, postpartum vaginal discharge, insufficient or excessive lactation and mastitis. Women who have undergone C-sections report less pain and quicker recovery time.

There are certain points forbidden access among pregnant women. Patients should ask their doctors first about taking treatments to ensure that they have no underlying medical conditions that might aggravate symptoms or endanger the baby’s health.

Acupuncture and Female Health Issues

Women undergo several more hormonal cycles and physical changes in their bodies compared to men.  This means that they need more maintenance to sustain health and wellness. Acupuncture has been shown to significantly improve a variety of conditions and symptoms including those related to females such as menstrual cycles, menopause and PMS.

Caring for Cancer

Although the true cause of cancer is not fully known, there seems to be a relationship between hormonal imbalance and abnormal proliferation and growth of cells and tissues. Several factors can predispose women to cancer of the breast, ovaries, endometrium and thyroid. Examples would be stress, lack of adequate nutrients, lack of rest, exposure to toxins and chemicals and substance abuse.

Internally, women also need to make sure that their hormones are well balanced despite regular changes that occur during menstrual periods. Menopause is an inevitable event in every woman’s life that needs to be prepared for to reduce cancer risks.

Acupuncture helps deal with both the prevention and treatment of cancer. Women who regularly visit their acupuncturists reduce stress levels and balance hormones thereby keeping cells and tissues in their proper order and function. As for treatment, women rely on acupuncture either as a main approach or as an adjunct to medical therapies like chemotherapy and palliative surgery.

Acupuncture is found to help minimize pain stemming from cancer as well as post-operative pain. Swelling and other bleeding disorders from the disease can be alleviated too.  Energetic acupuncture involves conduction of heat or electricity through the needles to hasten recovery and is used regularly by cancer institutions.

Menstrual Disorders

Another common female health issue involves menstrual disorders. All women suffer from a menstrual problem at some point in their lives. The disorder usually occurs during the person’s period presenting a variety of symptoms such as profuse bleeding, abdominal pain and cramps, irregular menses, fatigue, infertility, etc.

The types of menstrual disorders include: dysmenorrhea described as painful menstruation, hypo-menorrhea described as shorter than normal menstruation, menorrhagia described as prolonged menstruation, polymenorrhea described as frequent menstrual periods, oligomenorrhea described as infrequent menstrual periods and amenorrhea described as absence of menstruation.

Generally, hormone imbalance is the cause of several menstrual problems due to the large gap between estrogen and progesterone levels. Some women do not regularly ovulate or their system slows down the process of ovulation resulting in a variety of symptoms. Acupuncture can be beneficial for women of all ages since pressure points can stimulate glands to produce hormones more effectively. Other external causes of hormone imbalance can be treated as well as environmental factors, toxins and chemicals, stress and underlying diseases.

About PMS

Premenstrual syndrome or PMS is another female disorder triggered by imbalanced hormones. Traditional Chinese medicine states that the blood is “cold” thereby reducing the functionality of the kidneys, uterus and circulatory system leading to symptoms like irritability, bleeding disorder and abdominal cramps and pain.

Medical acupuncture indicates a need to support the immune and endocrine system for proper release of hormones and protection against infection by stimulating the right points that correlate to important organs and systems. Herbal formulas and different needle techniques may be used to improve the flow of blood and energy thereby reducing stress, anxiety and other physical symptoms.

Preparing for Menopause

Menopause is a physically and mentally challenging period in every woman’s life. This is described as the time when ovulation slows down and eventually stops resulting in hormone imbalance and several symptoms. Women in their 30s or 40s usually experience changes in their bodies and behavior such as low libido, easy fatigability, muscle pain, tender breasts, vaginal dryness, irritability and restlessness. Different hormones are usually not at normal levels so menopausal women tend to present symptoms constantly.

Acupuncture can be therapeutic for menopausal patients as it allows proper flow of blood and energy to organs and systems. Traditional Chinese medicine believes that the kidneys are the root of life and longevity and through acupuncture, channeling of vital energy to that part will result in significant improvements. Medical acupuncture approaches the problem by invigorating the individual, boosting energy levels, reducing stress and relieving muscle pains. As a result, risks for complications like cancer and behavioral changes can be alleviated.

Acupuncture is highly related to drug abuse since the treatment approach can be used in conjunction with herbal medications and may also be applied for substance abuse cases. The known positive effects of the method toward alleviating symptoms of chemical dependency have made it popular as a reliable and natural aid before resorting to more drastic procedures.

Growth of Alternative Treatment

Drug withdrawal is considered by doctors to be a very painful and traumatizing process that includes a variety of techniques, counseling sessions and substances. However, the rise of acupuncture along with other forms of alternative treatments has given the public the opportunity to treat chemical problems through natural approaches. Studies showed that the known positive effects of acupuncture in treating drug abuse patients have almost equaled the total cost spent on hospitalizations and alternative methods.

Although scientific data on the true effects of acupuncture on drug abuse needs more elaborate research and studies, clinical stories and anecdotal evidence have shown patients improve significantly. Symptoms of withdrawal have been alleviated with significantly lower side effects and health risks compared to other conventional techniques. Stress relief and detoxification are other benefits related to acupuncture treatment spurring medical clinics and rehabilitation programs to include it in their courses.

The Relationship

Acupuncture has already been proven to give good results for symptoms such as pain, fatigue and sleep disturbances. Stress and other conditions such as asthma, nausea, morning sickness, chronic pain and arthritis have also been shown to improve with the treatment. Since drug addiction poses several similar symptoms during the withdrawal stage, traditional and modern acupuncture are used to help minimize side effects or used in conjunction with medical methods at lower doses.

A study was made involving 60 drug abuse patients with ages ranging between 16 and 42 years old. All subjects were given acupuncture treatment in addition to the medications provided over an 8-week period. During the withdrawal stage, more than half of the patients reported significant reduction in withdrawal symptoms. All patients successfully finished the treatment course of 8 weeks with almost half diagnosed as completely recovered. Afterwards, the patients continued to get acupuncture treatment for maintenance purposes.

The detoxification effects of the technique were widely realized proving that it is more than just a placebo. At present, most of the individuals that rely on it come from the Eastern hemisphere although Americans accept the practice as long as the practitioner is licensed and accredited with major health organizations.

Acupuncture in Jail

Several inmates in the United States have drug and alcohol abuse problems. Since these individuals are confined, they either have no means of support, access or simply cannot afford drug treatment services. The introduction of acupuncture in the drug abuse scene has led healthcare institutions to continue to provide care and drug treatment programs behind bars using cheaper alternative methods. 4 major treatment programs are now available in the United States that incorporates the use of acupuncture as main treatment or adjunct to other treatment with positive results.

The Treatment Programs

1. Pharmacological approaches make use of Antabuse or methadone together with counseling, acupuncture and other treatment plans. Drug testing is also done regularly with good results.

2. Self-help or the chemical dependency approach uses a 12-step model that incorporates counseling, education and stress management techniques to help inmates cope with their drug problems while in jail. Meetings, planning, rehabilitation programs and seminars are held regularly to help patients identify tools that will help promote health and reduce drug abuse side effects.

3.  Psycho-education approaches are ideal for inmates who have not been confined in prison for over 3 months. Educational courses and activities are provided to motivate individuals to boost self-esteem and find a means of getting out of drug problems. Stress reduction methods such as acupuncture, massage and exercising are taught which they can continue after jail time.

4. Therapeutic communities are residential programs intended for severely drug dependent individuals. These encourage participation and fellowship among inmates dealing with the same problem of drug abuse. Programs usually last for 3 to 9 months and there are also programs that are considered long-term, lasting for years or as long as the individual needs fellowship. Several activities are provided to help realize the benefits of acupuncture and the consequences of drugs.

What to Expect On Your First Visit To An Acupuncture Clinic

If you have never gone to an acupuncture clinic before, there may still be a lot of questions in your mind. You may be wondering exactly how the method works and how it might feel to have several needles sticking into your skin. You might feel more comfortable knowing what to expect at your first visit so that you get the maximum effects and benefits of the treatment.

A Typical Session

Acupuncture basically involves the process of inserting and manipulating several fine thin needles through your skin. The number of needles applied, points of insertion and depths of entry will vary depending on how the acupuncturist finds your condition and how best you can regain balance in your system as the Qi or vital energy improves its flow. The medical benefits of the technique is not fully known although thousands of people have reported positive results most commonly with problems like headache, muscle pain, nausea, sleep problems and dizziness.

Acupuncture therapy usually lasts anywhere between 6 to 12 weeks in an outpatient setting with each week comprising of 1 to 3 sessions. You will initially be assessed about your current condition based on your medical history, current diagnosis, healthy habits, exercise and diet plan. The acupuncturist may still refer to laboratory findings and medical records to have an accurate diagnosis. During your first visit, you can expect to get needle application immediately after assessment or be asked to return the next day or in the same week to start treatment.

How It Works

An acupuncture session typically lasts about 30 to 60 minutes. Every practitioner may have a different style but the goal is still the same in helping your body get rid of pain, prevent stress and improve in normal functions. You will be asked to lie down on a flat comfortable surface in the supine, prone or side position. The acupuncturist then takes a pack of single-use sterile needles to be inserted in your body.

Expect body parts such as your head, neck, torso and extremities to be inserted with needles including your feet soles, toes, palms and fingers. In some cases, some needles are moved gently or stimulated with heat or electricity. In total, you can have anywhere from 5 to 30 needles on your skin left for 5 to 30 minutes.

Pain Worries

During your initial visit, you can expect a brief sharp feeling once the needle is inserted in your skin but a majority report that acupuncture is not at all painful. Aching sensations may also be felt as each needle is inserted at the right depth. Most practitioners give emphasis on not hurting the patient in any session using pain-free techniques, helping the patient relax primarily and reducing stress.

Some may not try to access a specific point if the patient finds it intolerable. Other sensations to expect include warmth, coolness, tingling, dull aches and as if water is trickling on the pressure point. Most associated these with a very relaxed and euphoric sensation at the end.

More First-Timer Tips

A single acupuncture session aims to treat more than one condition if present since all detected problems may be interrelated; both physical and mental symptoms can be alleviated by accessing similar pressure points simultaneously. Ear acupuncture involves a micro system of points that can treat the entire body. Needles are generally just as thick as a strand of hair. Some areas may bleed a bit after the needle is taken out especially when the person bruises easily or during hot weather.

Acupuncturists generally brief and inform patients about what to expect during the first few sessions. The patient has every right to decline any type of treatment or included detail in the process of acupuncture. Practitioners will be more than willing to provide you with options that best suit your condition and level of tolerance. A healing crisis can occur when patients go beyond their tolerance limit that actually hinders and delays recovery.

However, most effective professionals will try to stimulate points the right way to avoid any side effects such as nausea, sleepiness and muscle pain. Original symptoms may flare-up after treatment lasting several hours the next day. Immediately contact the acupuncturist if you notice these changes.

How Does an Acupuncture Practitioner Diagnose Illness?

Traditional acupuncture has raised a lot of skepticism due to the unconventional approaches and techniques used. The old principles are also getting a lot of abuse from modern medical standards since people cannot fully fathom the connection between physical illness and system equilibrium. What is the basis of an acupuncturist’s diagnosis and is it really accurate?

Pulse Interpretation

Acupuncture for several centuries has followed a very subjective course on the basis of Taoist philosophy and the concept of Yin and yang. During the 1950s, acupuncture diagnosis was developed when Dr. Yoshio Nakatani from Japan discovered ryodoraku. Ryodoraku is also known as pulse diagnosis wherein acupuncturists identify symptoms and health problems based on pulse descriptions usually taken from the wrists of the patient.

Dr. Nakatani initially developed the electronic evaluation system used in both traditional and modern acupuncture by measuring skin conductance at the yuan or source point of the wrist and ankle. Ryodoraku compared to pulse diagnosis used by ancient acupuncturists who palpate 12 pulse points for about 15 to 20 minutes per wrist is almost identical. Historically, practitioners use 28 pulse characteristics to get a definitive pulse diagnosis. However, health problems can be determined by finding out if a specific meridian is not in tune with the 12 primary points.

Pulses and Meridians

The ryodoraku system was renamed EMI or electro-meridian imaging in 1982 and is considered to be very reliable and easy to learn and use. Practitioners can now determine meridian status through their electric conductivity by adding the measured values of the meridian points then dividing the sum by 24 to represent the 12 bilateral meridians.

Ryodoraku successfully introduced split meridians that show a correlation between pulse points and different areas of the body. The pulse will be described in different qualities and characteristics to point out the existing conditions and pathogens in the body.

Tongue Diagnosis

Tongue diagnosis is another tool used in acupuncture wherein practitioners assess the tongue and describe it thoroughly to distinguish the condition of the patient and look for presence of pathogens.

Compared to pulse diagnosis, the tongue is less subjective and easier to assess and learn. It is also less median specific and it cannot be altered greatly by short-term conditions like nervousness. Tongue diagnosis can adequately present the extent and nature of a disease as well as the progress of the patient.

Basic tongue geography and meridian correlations are as follows. The lower Jiao or base of the tongue refers to the large and small intestine, kidney and urinary bladder meridians. The middle Jiao of sides of the tongue refer to the liver and gallbladder meridians. The middle part of the tongue refers to the stomach and spleen meridians. The upper Jiao or tip of the tongue refers to the lung and heart meridians.

Other characteristics will also be observed such as the shape and color of the tongue body. The tongue coating indicates the condition of the stomach and spleen as well as the temperature, strength and depth of pathogenic features. Coat rooting will also be assessed.

More Diagnostic Procedures

Traditional acupuncturists may also rely on other diagnostic procedures and tools to identify imbalances of Qi or vital energy. Included are questioning which identifies a patient’s medical history and lifestyle factors that predispose the current condition, listening which involves observing breathing sounds, palpation which involves pulse-taking, touching and pressing, smelling which involves observation of body odor, breath and urine and observing which involves looking at the posture, color and other visual characteristics. Deficiency or excess of yin, yang and blood are also assessed. Pulse and tongue diagnosis are used in conjunction with these approaches to get a more accurate diagnosis.

Zang-Fu or organ imbalances are also checked to make a diagnosis. They use a specific set of symptoms similar to natural elements or forces such as the wind or water.

Acupuncture points, herbs and breathing exercises are some of the techniques used once diagnosis is confirmed. Channel dysfunctions are another type of diagnostic system which checks the proper flow of qi or blood in the pathways or body systems. Blockage can disrupt the yin and yang aspects thereby leading to pain or injury. Confirmation can further be done through diagnostic imaging, neurological tests and palpation.

What are the Differences between Eastern and Western Acupuncture?

Acupuncture originally developed in Ancient China thousands of years ago. However, the practice has taken on many forms over the centuries with different modalities, principles and terminologies created by other nations that adopted it. Knowing the differences between eastern and western methods may help you choose the best action and adjunctive treatment.

The Origin in the East

Stone knives and pointed rocks were the first needles that relieved stress and illness when acupuncture was first used in China during the Stone Age at around 3000 B.C. “Bian” or stone needles developed into bamboo or slivers of animal bone then finally into metal needles during the Bronze Age of the Shang Dynasty. The meridian system or channels of energy were also developed during this period.

During 475 to 221 B.C., moxibustion, meridian and viscera pathology, acupuncture points, indications, contraindications and 9 needles were added. More developments such as the use of fingers or “tsun”, herbs and acupressure were found from 960 to 1368 A.D.

Western Acceptance

Between 1644 and 1911, acupuncture and other traditional Chinese medicines were traded by China with other foreign countries such as Japan, France, Spain, Portugal and Korea despite a decree to ban the practice. By the 1900s, several Arabian, Asian and European countries have already discovered the therapeutic benefits and embraced acupuncture methods continuing research and development.

In the 1940s and 1950s, traditional Chinese methods were fused with Western discoveries to improve the system and techniques including acupuncture anesthesia. The United States was first introduced to the treatment in 1916 although it took almost 60 years before the nation accepted it as effective and reliable.

Understanding the Differences

Since Americans have a hard time understanding or accepting the Qi or vital energy that Chinese believe flows through a person’s system, acupuncture had to evolve into Western standards thus leading to the creation of modern or medical acupuncture. This is advantageous when trying to combine or use the traditional treatment with modern medicine as medical doctors, chiropractors, physical therapists and osteopaths use the same new terminologies, basis of diagnosis and treatments and systems.

Western acupuncture basically emphasizes the scientific perspective rather than the philosophical principles of TCM. The term “acupuncture” is actually Western derived from the Latin words “akus” and “pungere” which means needle and prick.

Traditional Chinese acupuncture has been practiced for thousands of years and is generally based on Taoist principles and elements of naturalism. TCM or traditional Chinese medicine is the revised structure of acupuncture and herbal medicine.  Therefore it is actually a modern form of the treatment that has already been infused with western medical concepts. The new system uses known medical knowledge such as anatomy and physiology and is existent in hospitals and clinics in China for over half a century. Medical institutions in other parts of the globe like Japan, Korea and other European nations also use this new form of acupuncture.

East-West Comparison

1. Eastern acupuncture uses points and meridians in the body believed to channel Qi or vital energy through systems and organs. Western acupuncture ignores or reinterprets these acupuncture points since there is no scientific or physical basis that can verify the relative connection to diseases or the existence of such.

2. Eastern acupuncture is based on philosophical principles while western acupuncture works using modern biomedical understanding of anatomy, physiology and biochemistry. Concepts of disease in the West are taken from medical data and pathology studies.  Concepts of disease in the East still use medical theories from ancient times.

3. The terminologies may also differ since Eastern acupuncture describes using a Taoist metaphor and common language while Western acupuncture describes using modern biomedicine.

4. Traditional acupuncturists see modern acupuncture as a degraded version of the original since it is usually only used in modern therapy in conjunction with mainstream medicine. Sessions using traditional approaches can use more needles and last for 20 to 60 minutes while modern acupuncture may use fewer ones lasting only for 2 to 10 minutes. Traditional practitioners refer to the new methods as “dry needling”.

5. Knowing where to insert the needles is a matter of knowing where the energy flows through the body for Eastern acupuncturists. Western practitioners however, use two principles namely the gate theory of pain and the existence of natural opiates in the body.

What are the Different Types of Acupuncture Treatments?

People may not be aware that acupuncture did not solely stem from traditional Chinese medicine or TCM. Other countries such as Egypt, Japan and those in Central Europe have also developed terminologies, basis of diagnosis, charts, anatomy and principles relative to their own studies and research. You may be able to find treatment more effective by applying the right modality.

The Oriental Techniques

1. Moxibustion. This is a technique incorporating a Chinese herb named Mugwort or Artemesia Vulgaris to apply heat to a specific acupuncture point. Moxa is commonly rolled into a stick similar to the size of a cigar, lit with a matchstick then held over certain areas of the body to alleviate different symptoms. To provide deeper heat penetration, Moxa may also be placed onto the handle of acupuncture needles. Moxibustion can treat arthritis and other body aches.

2. Cupping. This is a technique wherein the acupuncturist uses a glass cup or bamboo jar that functions as suction on the body to be left for 5 to 15 minutes. Cupping can also be used in conjunction with electro-acupuncture to enhance its effects. The method greatly enhances circulation and relieves symptoms of swelling, back pain, neck pain, shoulder pain, colds and flu.

3. Electro-Acupuncture. The approach involves the conduction of small electrical currents through acupuncture needles to reduce inflammation, reduce pain and enhance tissue healing. Electro-acupuncture is often used together with traditional acupuncture to treat swelling.

4. Tui Na. This is the traditional Chinese massage or physical therapy that is usually applied together with traditional acupuncture to treat different musculo-skeletal conditions.

According to Source

a. TCM or Traditional Chinese Acupuncture. This is the most common and popular type of acupuncture. Patients are placed in a comfortable position then needles as thin as a hair strand are inserted at varying angles, points and depths to relieve different conditions and symptoms.

b. Japanese Style Acupuncture. This type is more subtle and stimulating than TCM using fewer and finer needles.

c. Korean Hand Acupuncture. The process only makes use of the hand instead of the whole body. Korean acupuncturists believe that there are points in the hand that correspond to every single part of the body and these can be stimulated to improve the overall condition of the person.

More Systems

5. Formulae Acupuncture. This system is also known as prescription acupuncture since application of needles to a formulated set of points are considered as the prescription treatment for each type of symptom. Professionals use a set of known formulae points in order to treat a specific known illness or symptom. The approach basically focuses only on the presenting symptoms without putting much emphasis on the underlying cause or diagnosis. It is a practice generally used by Medical Acupuncture Science.

6. Five Element Acupuncture. The Chinese used pulses on the wrist to diagnose any present illness in a person then.  They then use specific points or meridians to allow Chi or energy to properly flow and restore balance. The primary treatments are needles and moxibustion wherein heat is applied through the needles using the herb mugwort or an electrical DC heater type unit.

7. Modern Acupuncture. To make a diagnosis, objective measurements and assessments are taken from the patient. Western medical terminology is used to describe the points that need to be accessed. Modern acupuncture uses homeopathic remedies, herbs and other approaches to find the right points that result in system balance. Aside from needles, magnetic fields or MFT, frequencies and bio-resonance frequencies from the patient, color or sound may be used individually or in combination.

8. Auricular Acupuncture. This is both a TCM and modern system of acupuncture also known as Nogier and Kropej. Points in the ear correlate to various points in the body that can be accessed to treat different conditions and systems. The advantage is its use of objective measurement techniques are different from beeper units. Beeper units however, may sometimes be used to locate auricular points for adjunctive treatment.

More Styles

9. Shonishin Pediatric Acupuncture. This is a unique form of treatment developed in the Middle Ages in Japan to treat both infants and children. The approach focuses on gentle no-insertion techniques to make younger patients comfortable. Stimulation is achieved using rhythmic stroking, tapping, rubbing and pressing to strengthen the immune system and revitalize.

10. Acupressure. This is a form of TCM derived from acupuncture. Instead of using needles, physical pressure is applied using the hand, elbow or other devices to the same acupuncture points. Acupressure still perceives TCM concepts and principles in functional terms over structural ones.