Today, I was trawling through Facebook looking for ideas for another blog. When I came across an excellent short 3min video simply describing how acupuncture really works. It was so easy to understand that I decided to just simply post the link to the video, (link at bottom of this blog), as well as copy out its salient points. I have done this more as an easy reference. Rather than having to scroll back on your device which I know can be painful.
I have posted blogs and articles written by others including Dr’s and scientists but this one was much easier to grasp. I hope you enjoy and it gives you a better understanding of this amazing therapy.
How does acupuncture work? A simple and easy guide.
The mistranslations of ancient Chinese texts into English have given acupuncture a very mystical, esoteric and some say spooky reputation. Which has completely missed the mark of what it really is.
Acupuncture, does not enhance some strange universal power using divine intervention that helps you recover from your ailments. Even though some acupuncturists would like you to believe that.
Acupuncture is actually a real type of medicine or medicinal theory that is based on actual anatomy and physiology. Concentrating on the improving the flow of Oxygen (Qi), Blood (Xue) and Nutrients (Ying Qi).
The impairment of blood flow or blood stagnation is the number 1 cause of disease. Which makes sense, if there is a problem with blood flow to any area of the body there will be impaired function.
The body cannot heal without blood flow to the affected area so this make sense, as acupuncture helps the body heal itself. Acupuncture does this by causing the blood vessels to dilate or constrict to either; increase or decrease blood flow to specific areas of the body. This is done to relieve pain and improve organ function.
It also works by stimulating the nervous system by activating nociceptor sensory nerves and proprioceptor fibers that travel from the skin, to the spine and to the brain. Acupuncture does this by improving nerve signals to your brain to realise opioids (natural painkillers) to shut off the pain signal eliminate the pain.
The combination of these two effects is what helps the body heal itself while reducing any pain. This is done by treating the 5 main factors that influence your health:
- The flow of oxygen (Qi)
- The flow of blood (Xue)
- The health of your blood vessels (Xue Mai)
- Health of your organs (Zang Fu)
- The health of the nervous system (Jing Mai)
Acupuncture can treat an endless number of conditions. Either on its own or in conjunction with Chinese herbal medicine or other therapies.
So if you are looking for a solution to your problems, without drugs or side effects, give Acupuncture a try.
Contact Quay Health on 02) 9252 2825 or at quayhealth.com.au.
Darren Geer
Acupuncturist
BASc Acup
CMR0001715102
