l Chinese medicine and its history
In most western countries acupuncture is referred to as ‘new alternative’, but in fact this branch of Chinese medicine is more than 5000 years old.
Basically, acupuncture represents insertion of very fine needles on the body’s surface to influence physiological functioning of the body. These needles can be combined with electrical stimulus or in conjunction with heat produced by burning specific herbs (latter is called Moxibustion).
In acupuncture from six to nine needles are commonly used, most of which are disposable. Needles have different length, width of shaft and shape of the head. Depending on the treatment, they can be inserted anywhere in the range of 15 to 90 degrees relative to the skin surface. There is also a variety of carefully chosen techniques that follow the insertion of the needles: raising and thrusting, twirling or rotation, combination of raising/thrusting and rotation, plucking, scraping (vibrations sent through the needle), and trembling (vibration technique).
Scientists still cannot explain how acupuncture works, but there are few prevailing theories.
Theory called Augmentation of Immunity states that acupuncture somehow raises levels of triglycerides, specific hormones, prostaglandins, white blood counts, gamma globulins, opsonins, and overall anti-body levels.
The Endorphin theory claims that acupuncture stimulates the secretions of endorphins in the body.
According to the Neurotransmitter theory, Acupuncture affects certain neurotransmitter levels.
In China, it is rather common in hospital to have acupuncture and herbal treatment along with Western medical treatment. In United States medical acupuncture is taught in 60 percent of medical schools and most chiropractic colleges. Moreover, acupuncture is recognized by several medical organizations including the WHO, American Medical Association, the National Institute of Health and the American Chiropractic Association.
This leads to the conclusion that acupuncture is an effective healing system that can be used in conjunction with almost all other systems.