Have you ever considered visiting a registered acupuncturist for your health concerns? Acupuncture is an ancient alternative form of medicine that has been used for thousands of years in China. This method involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to balance the body’s energy flow, also known as Qi pronounced “chee”.
Acupuncture is used to treat a wide range of conditions, including chronic pain, stress, anxiety, infertility, and digestive disorders. It may also provide relief from side effects caused by chemotherapy and radiation therapy.
During a typical acupuncture session, the registered acupuncturist will discuss your medical history, symptoms, and also perform an examination of your tongue and pulse before creating a treatment plan unique to your needs.
You will then lie down on a table and the acupuncturist will insert needles into the specific points previously identified. Although it sounds painful, you may feel a slight sensation, but needles should not cause pain. The needles will stay in place from 10 to 30 minutes, while you listen to relaxing music and let your body relax.
Acupuncture works by stimulating the body’s natural healing processes, helping to restore balance and promoting the free flow of Qi throughout the body. According to traditional Chinese medicine, pain and illness result from an imbalance or blockage of the Qi energy flow. This technique helps to remove these barriers, resolving the underlying issues.
It’s not just ancient Eastern medicine that supports the benefits of acupuncture. In recent years, more and more scientific studies have been conducted to investigate the effectiveness of acupuncture in treating various conditions.
One example is a study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, which found that acupuncture can significantly reduce chronic neck pain after just three sessions. This study also suggested that the participants who received acupuncture treatments had better quality of life and experienced less depression and anxiety.
Another study published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology concluded that acupuncture significantly reduced the severity of hot flashes and other menopausal symptoms in breast cancer patients. It is so effective that some doctors now recommend acupuncture as an alternative to hormone therapy, which can lead to side effects.
Acupuncture has little to no side effects, unlike prescription medications which may have severe side effects. Patients rarely experience any side effects after an acupuncture session. After the treatment, you may feel relaxed or energized, depending on your personal body responses.
It’s important to note that for a safe and effective treatment, it is recommended to visit a registered acupuncturist, who has specific training and qualifications. In Canada, the training requirement to become a registered acupuncturist varies between provinces.
In Ontario, for example, one must have graduated from a registered acupuncturist program and pass the College of Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioners and Acupuncturists of Ontario CTCMPAO board examination before they can receive their license.
In other provinces, such as British Columbia and Alberta, registered acupuncturists must complete a three-year program in traditional Chinese medicine and then pass a board examination.
It’s essential to research your prospective registered acupuncturist before undergoing treatment. Most acupuncturists will request a consultation to discuss your symptoms and medical history.
Be sure to ask for their qualifications, certifications and insurance coverage. You can also ask for referrals from other patients or check their qualifications online.
Acupuncture has been found to be a safe and effective treatment for many conditions. By visiting a registered acupuncturist, you will have access to trained professionals who can help you to achieve optimum health and improve your overall quality of life. Take the time to research before you book your first session and be open to trying this ancient alternative form of medicine.
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