What is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is a time-tested method of healing that dates back thousands of years. Its origin outdates currently existing literature and historical records. Modern scientific research into acupuncture has only just begun to catch up to what was known then.
Modern-day acupuncture practice involves the use of needles that are inserted into known acupuncture points located on various parts of the body. These needles are single-use and made of surgical stainless steel as thin as a thread of human hair.
With scientific research, it is known that acupuncture points are pressure, thermal, and light-sensitive; that is to say, a physiological response is observed when an acupuncture point is stimulated via these means. For example, an acupuncture point located on the lateral calf above the ankle known to benefit the eyes and vision, when needled, produces an increase in neural activity in the brain’s corresponding visual cortex, which can be seen on a functioning-MRI scan. Locally at the acupuncture point site, an increase of blood flow can also be observed; this increase in blood flow brings about endorphins, the body’s natural painkiller. It also increases oxygenation to promote cellular respiration, and therefore, cellular replication and repair.
Acupuncture Treatment in St. Albert
Acupuncture can treat a wide range of common musculoskeletal and internal conditions. Patients suffering from chronic, recurrent pain; stress, anxiety, or depression; as well as complications of the digestive, immune, and endocrine system have all found reduction in both the intensity and the frequency of their symptoms. It can also provide relief from:
- Headaches and migraines
- Insomnia
- Back pain, neck pain, and other types of pain
- Menstrual cramps
- Osteoarthritis
- Chemotherapy side effects (such as nausea and vomiting)
What is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture describes the use of filiform (thread-like and non-hollow) needles inserted into specific acupuncture points located throughout the body, each of which is known to aid the body’s natural healing abilities. Stimulating different acupuncture points can achieve different results, allowing for the treatment of specific ailments, injuries, or conditions.
Where did acupuncture start?
Acupuncture is rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the origin of cupping techniques now used by physiotherapists and massage therapists all over the world. The first TCM book dates back more than 2,200 years ago.
How does it work?
Acupuncture points are pressure, heat, and light-sensitive. Stimulation of an acupuncture point produces neuronal signals to the brain to kick-start the healing of a body part or to regulate a bodily system function. For example, modern scientific research has shown through MRI that the stimulation of an acupuncture point in the lower leg known to aid the healing of eye problems leads to the corresponding visual cortex in the brain to become active. Local area endorphin levels and blood flow also increase when an acupuncture point is stimulated.
How many treatments will I need?
The treatment course varies from injury to injury and from person to person. Factors such as the history and severity of the injury, the overall health of the person (and, therefore, their body’s ability to heal), and the willingness to take action and follow through with the prescribed treatment plan all compound to determine how quickly healing happens and how many treatments are needed.
How does acupuncture differ from dry needling?
Acupuncture boosts the body’s natural healing abilities and can treat both external injuries as well as internal conditions. Dry needling specifically targets muscle knots to achieve tension release.
Can I receive acupuncture while undergoing massage therapy?
Absolutely! Undergoing both therapies concurrently allows the treatment process to cover a wider spectrum, providing an optimal environment for the body to heal from any injuries and/or dysfunctions. Be sure to ask your therapist at Urban Massage & Wellness about massage therapy or acupuncture treatments. We are a holistic team dedicated to your wellness, which means we can recommend one of the other experts on our team to complete your treatment plan.
Are there risks to acupuncture?
Although some people are nervous about trying acupuncture for the first time, it is very safe and effective with an experienced and trained acupuncturist. The risk of infection is extremely low and single-use, sterile needles are always used at Urban Massage & Wellness. Your acupuncturist will follow specific procedures for cleaning the site of insertion and disposing of needles after use.
Is there anyone who should not receive acupuncture?
Just about anyone can be a candidate for acupuncture. In certain circumstances, such as if you have a blood disorder, a pacemaker, or you are pregnant, you should speak to your doctor before booking an acupuncture appointment.
