Acupuncture: How it works, Uses, Benefits and Risks

Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine practice that rose to popularity many centuries ago. The basis for the concept is the premise that health issues can arise if there is a disturbance or blockage in the flow of the body's qi or life energy. An acupuncturist inserts hair-thin needles into certain acupuncture points all over the body to restore the qi's flow, balance the energy of the body, promote relaxation, and stimulate healing. Based on traditional Chinese medicine theory, the human body has more than 1,000 acupuncture points, each of which lies on the meridian or an invisible channel of energy. Every meridian is connected to a particular organ system. 

• How It Works 

Researchers don't really understand the way acupuncture works, but there are several theories associated with it. One theory states that acupuncture works by stimulating the release of the hormone endorphins, the natural pain-relieving chemicals in the human body.  There is also a belief that acupuncture also influences the autonomic nervous system responsible for controlling the body's functions and the release of the chemicals regulating blood pressure and blood flow, calms the brain, and reduces inflammation.

• Uses

It is said that acupuncture can help address several health conditions such as the following:

Weight loss

• Tinnitus 

• Anxiety and stress

• Sinus congestion

•Sciatica 

• Nausea

•Migraines

• Depression

• Chronic pain like headaches, neck pain, and back pain

•Arthritis

•Anxiety

Some people use acupuncture to promote fertility. It is also used to help quit smoking as well as a part of treatment for other forms of addictions.

Facial acupuncture or cosmetic acupuncture is also used to help in improving the skin's appearance.

• Benefits 

Some of the top benefits of acupuncture include the following: .

• Acupuncture is safe when done properly.

• There are only a few side effects associated with Acupuncture.

• It can be quite effective once used in conjunction with other types of treatments.

• It can help patients who are not able to use pain medications.

• It can control certain forms of pain.

The experts recommend avoiding using acupuncture as an alternative for visiting a traditional healthcare provider or doctor.

• Risks 

Just like other therapies, there are also a few risks associated with acupuncture. Some of its potential risks include the following:

• Acupuncture can be dangerous for patients with bleeding disorders or those who are taking blood thinners.

•Acupuncture as an alternative for visiting a traditional healthcare provider or doctor.

•Risks Just like other therapies, there are also a few risks associated with acupuncture. Some of its potential risks include the following:

• Acupuncture can be dangerous for patients with bleeding disorders or those who are taking blood thinners. • Soreness, bruising, and bleeding may occur at the areas of insertion.

• The patient might get infected by unsterilized needs.

• If inserted too deep into the upper back or chest, there is the risk of a collapsed lung, although it is a very rare case.

•Acupuncture needles are regulated as medical devices, which means that their labeling and manufacture must meet specific standards.

These needs should be nontoxic, sterile, and labeled for use exclusively by licensed practitioners.