What is Acupuncture?

Far more than a technique of inserting tiny thread-like needles along meridian lines of the body, acupuncture's complex system of diagnostic corollaries take into consideration the person as a whole, not just isolated symptoms. Acupuncture is practiced based on discerning the "pattern of disharmony" and treating accordingly. Modern acupuncture utilizes other modalities as well, such as herbal medicine, moxibustion, exercise and nutrition.

• Acupoint Stimulation Can Help Induce Labor

Acupuncture treats to strengthen the physical condition, prevent disease, control pain and achieve longevity. The aim as practiced in Oriental Medicine in general is not necessarily to eliminate or alleviate symptoms. The objective, rather, is to increase both the the ability to function and the quality of life.Acupuncture treats to strengthen the physical condition, prevent disease, control pain and achieve longevity. The aim as practiced in Oriental Medicine in general is not necessarily to eliminate or alleviate symptoms. The objective, rather, is to increase both the the ability to function and the quality of life.

Acupuncture is a therapy which uses natural laws and energetics with the application of needles and pressure to specific points on the body. These points are grouped along specific pathways or meridians that cross the body. As long as the energy flows freely through these pathways, health is maintained. When the flow of energy is blocked for any reason, there is disruption of healthier, resulting in pain and illness. By stimulating appropriate acupuncture points along these meridians, the energy is released and regulated and health is restored.

How does acupuncture work?

Acupuncture is a therapy which uses natural laws and energetics with the application of needles and pressure to specific points on the body. These points are grouped along specific pathways or meridians that cross the body. As long as the energy flows freely through these pathways, health is maintained. When the flow of energy is blocked for any reason, there is disruption of healthier, resulting in pain and illness. By stimulating appropriate acupuncture points along these meridians, the energy is released and regulated and health is restored.

Studies indicate that acupuncture influences the central and peripheral nervous system. Evidence shows it is particularly effective in pain control. Among a host of factors, acupuncture affects sugar, cholesterol, and triglyceride levels in the blood, the functioning of the gastrointestinal system and the activity of the endocrine system. Acupuncture works with the body, harmonizing and balancing energy. It improves circulation, releases endorphins to control pain and allows the body to heal itself more quickly and more completely.

"Remember, your physician works for you! If you don't like the job he's doing fire him! If he can't take time to ask you about your day, and answer your questions and ask how you feel, Fire him! Bad physicians are a dime a dozen. You deserve better."

-Dan Martin OMD DOM

lecture on alternative medicine at Texarkana College 2003.