Acupuncture

What is acupuncture? – a brief overview
Acupuncture is a method of treatment that forms part of a traditional Chinese system of medicine, which treats illness as an imbalance in the life energy “Qi”. The channels along which this life energy flows through the body are called meridians. The acupuncture points are located on these channels.

Modern scientific research has now found numerous correspondences and explanations for this knowledge that dates back over 2000 years.
How is acupuncture used?
Very fine disposable needles are inserted into precisely defined acupuncture points and left there for approximately 30 minutes or, in some cases, for a longer or shorter period of time. Patients often experience sensations of pressure and weight, hot and cold or prickling. During the acupuncture, the needles are stimulated by gentle raising, lowering and turning.

In electroacupuncture, the acupuncture points are stimulated electrically, while in moxibustion they are stimulated by heat. Both processes can also be carried out without needles, i.e. completely pain-free, and are therefore also very suitable for children.

Ear acupuncture treats the surface of the ear as a reflex zone on which all the organs of the body are represented. To produce long-term effects, semi-permanent needles can be inserted or small seeds are stuck onto the points, which the patient activates by applying pressure with his finger.
How long does an acupuncture treatment last?
The length of time before an improvement is seen and the frequency of treatment required depend on the nature and severity of the ailment, how long it has existed and the organism’s ability to respond. Sometimes, one treatment is enough. Usually, around seven to ten sessions are required, sometimes more. Treatment is administered 1-3 times per week, although in acute cases daily treatment may be expedient.
What diseases can acupuncture treat?
The World Health Organisation has produced a list of diseases for which acupuncture treatment may be effective. Here are some treatment indications:

  • Aches
  • Allergies
  • Asthma
  • Back pain
  • Cardiac arrhythmias
  • Depressive moods
  • Eating disorders
  • Eczema
  • Fatigue
  • Fibromyalgia
  • Hay fever
  • Headaches
  • Hearing loss
  • Support during weight loss and nicotine withdrawal
  • Irritable bowel syndrome
  • Joint wear and tear (arthrosis)
  • Menopausal problems
  • Menstrual pains
  • Migraines
  • Neurodermatitis
  • Rheumatism
  • Sleep disorders
  • Stress
  • Tennis elbow
  • Tinnitus
  • Vertigo

You can find further information on the foundation’s homepage www.akupunktur.de. If you have questions about your own symptoms, please do not hesitate to contact the practice by telephone or e-mail.

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