Understanding Acupuncture And How It Can Benefit You

Acupuncture is currently one of the most popular treatment alternatives for various health conditions. And if you are looking to set an appointment to have acupuncture done, it is important that you fully understand what it’s all about and how you can benefit from it. So before you go and find the best acupuncture york specialist, here’s everything that you need to know about this traditional Chinese medicine.

Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine

As mentioned, acupuncture is a very important part of traditional Chinese medicine. It involves the insertion of thin needles through the skin at certain parts of the body. This is commonly used for overall wellness, especially for stress management. Acupuncture is a technique that is used to balance the flow of energy or Chi through the pathways in your body. When the very thin needles are inserted, practitioners believe that the energy flow will be re-balanced.

Why Acupuncture is Done?

Acupuncture is commonly used to relieve discomfort that can be associated with different conditions and diseases. This includes nausea and vomiting due to chemotherapy and post-surgery, dental pain, headaches, lower back pain, neck pain, dental pain, osteoarthritis, as well as respiratory disorders, and menstrual cramps.

Choose Your Acupuncture Practitioner

Since acupuncture is very popular these days, there is plenty for you to choose from, even locally. But you have to remember that not all of them are the same. In fact, some are better than others. That is why you need to be extra careful when picking your practitioner. So when choosing one soon, you should ask people for recommendations. It is best if someone you trust can recommend an acupuncture practitioner for you.

If not, use the internet to your advantage. These days, it is easy to find health practitioners, especially those who are near you. And once you already have a list of options, you can check for training and credentials. It is important that the acupuncture practitioner that you choose is experienced and knowledgeable. You should also take the time to interview the practitioner. Do not be afraid to ask questions, especially if this is your first time. And also, find out if this treatment is covered by your insurance.

Expectations During the Procedure

Each practitioner has a unique style in performing acupuncture. Some are even blending Eastern and Western approaches. Before the procedure is done, the practitioner will ask you about your symptoms as well as relevant information about your lifestyle. Also, the painful parts of your body that needs treatment will be closely examined. During the acupuncture treatment, the needles are inserted into specific spots in your body. Some may find a little discomfort, but it will not last for a long time.

Initial evaluation and treatment usually take about an hour to finish. And for your following appointments, it may only take about half an hour. The number of treatments that you will need will depend on your health condition that is being treated. But in general, expect to receive about 6 to 8 treatments which are usually done once or twice a week.