Beyond Pain Relief: 10 Surprising Facts About Acupuncture You Didn't Know
As the holiday rush was in full swing, I found myself engaged in a conversation with a fellow shopper while waiting in line for some last-minute purchases (which is a whole other story*). When she learned that I practice acupuncture, she was brimming with curiosity, asking a barrage of questions.
That interaction sparked an idea: if she had these inquiries, chances are you might too. That's why I've put together a list of 10 intriguing facts that often fly under the radar for most people.
Acupuncture is part of a broader system of medicine known as Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), which includes not just acupuncture but also techniques like tuina (massage), cupping, and more.
The exact age of Acupuncture remains a mystery as it dates back beyond recorded history, but its origins trace back at least 3,000 years.
Acupuncture is used on Animals too! If you’d like your furry friend to give it a go, ask your veterinarian. Because in NH, the animal acupuncture is left to them.
Acupuncture isn’t just for pain relief. People turn to acupuncture for various reasons like regulating hormones (think PMS, hot flashes, and fertility), managing stress, and giving their immune system a boost.
No - most people don’t think it hurts.
Acupuncture has cosmetic uses. It provides lift, helps promote collagen and reduces wrinkles.
Research shows acupuncture's impact on the nervous system, stimulating endorphin release and regulating brain chemistry. It's not just magic needles, it's neurochemistry in action.
In addition to examining the body, traditional acupuncturists often use tongue and pulse diagnosis as diagnostic tools. The tongue's color, shape, and coating, along with the pulse's quality, provide valuable insights into your health.
There are a lot of different styles and systems of Acupuncture. The most commonly used in the United States is Traditional Chinese Medicine. However, the majority of us who’ve been in practice for a long time have learned multiple systems. Which is why we can treat the same problem in many different ways.
Clearing misconceptions, "Dry Needling" by non-acupuncturists aligns with what an acupuncturist terms "local needling." This involves targeting painful areas with needles and manipulating them to alleviate discomfort. Its stronger sensation, distinct from non-local acupuncture, shouldn't dissuade anyone from exploring acupuncture further.
