WHY ACUPUNCTURE?
The Concept of Acupuncture
Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine practice that dates back over 2,500 years. It involves the insertion of fine, sterile needles into specific points on the body, known as acupoints. According to Chinese medicine, these acupoints lie along meridians, which are pathways through which life energy, or "Qi" (pronounced "chee"), flows. The goal of acupuncture is to restore the balance of Qi and promote the body's natural healing processes.
​
How Acupuncture Works
​
Though the concept of Qi and meridians may seem foreign to Western medicine, modern scientific research has provided some explanations for how acupuncture may work. One theory suggests that acupuncture stimulates the nervous system, leading to the release of neurotransmitters and endorphins, which can reduce pain and promote a sense of well-being. Additionally, acupuncture may improve blood circulation, reduce inflammation, and relax tight muscles, all of which can contribute to pain relief.
​
The Acupuncture Experience
​
A typical acupuncture session begins with a consultation, during which the practitioner will take a detailed medical history and assess the patient's condition. This may involve physical examination and palpation of specific areas to identify tender or tight spots.
​
During the treatment, the patient will lie comfortably on a treatment table while the acupuncturist inserts the needles. The sensation is typically minimal, often described as a slight tingling or dull ache. The needles are usually left in place for 20 to 30 minutes, during which the patient may feel relaxed or even fall asleep.
​
The World Health Organization has recognized over 40 conditions that can be effectively treated by acupuncture including;
-
Headache, Migraines, Facial pain
-
Insomnia
-
Joint pains, Knee pain,Ankle pain Low back pain
-
​Epigastric pain
-
Morning Sickness, Nausea and vomiting
-
Neck pain
-
Pain in dentistry
-
Periarthritis of shoulder
-
Postoperative pain
-
Rheumatoid Arthritis
-
Sciatica
-
Stress/Anxiety
-
Unbalanced Hormones
-
Adverse reactions to radiotherapy/chemotherapy
Headaches and Migraines
Acupuncture may be an effective treatment for migraines, and some studies suggest it may be more effective than Western medicine:
-
Frequency: Acupuncture may reduce the frequency of migraine attacks. One study found that acupuncture reduced the frequency of migraine attacks more than sham acupuncture. Another study found that acupuncture reduced the frequency of headaches by at least half in 41% of participants, compared to 17% of participants who received no acupuncture.
-
Intensity: Acupuncture may reduce the intensity of headaches.
-
Side effects: Some studies suggest that acupuncture has fewer side effects than Western medicine.
-
Duration: Acupuncture may reduce the duration of migraine attacks.
-
Days of attack: Acupuncture may reduce the number of days with migraine attacks
Based on moderate certainty of evidence, it can be concluded that acupuncture is mildly more effective and much safer than medication for the prophylaxis of migraine. (Source)
Here are some more scientific articles from
​
Effectiveness and Safety of Acupuncture for Migraine: An Overview of Systematic Reviews.
​
Acupuncture and Its Role in the Treatment of Migraine Headaches.
Sleep and Stress
Acupuncture is commonly used for pain relief but has also gained attention for improving sleep quality. Research suggests that acupuncture may help regulate sleep by affecting the central nervous system, promoting relaxation, and enhancing the production of sleep-inducing chemicals like melatonin.
It can also reduce symptoms of insomnia, anxiety, and stress, which are common contributors to poor sleep. It’s often used as a complementary therapy alongside other treatments for sleep disorders.
​
Chinese medicine treats symptoms. Everyone has unique symptoms for whatever dis – ease state they are in & this is what we treat here at Calmia.
There are some wonderful Patented, TGA approved & scientifically trialed herbal medicines that can greatly help improve sleep & reduce stress levels. It cannot be stressed enough how a good nights sleep is vital to good health maintenance.
Pain Relief
“Where there is No Flow there is Pain, Where there is Flow there is No Pain”
​
Acupuncture and Chinese medicine can be effective in pain relief by targeting specific points on the body to stimulate healing and balance. Acupuncture involves inserting thin needles into these points to promote the flow of energy, or "Qi," which can help reduce pain and inflammation.
Chinese` medicine, which includes herbal remedies and other techniques, works to restore harmony within the body, addressing the root causes of pain and promoting overall well-being.
​
From a scientific point of view, acupuncture and Herbal medicine can help with pain relief through several scientifically observed mechanisms:
-
Neurobiological Effects: Acupuncture stimulates specific points on the body, known as acupoints, which can activate nerve fibers. This activation leads to the release of neurotransmitters such as endorphins and serotonin, which are natural painkillers. These chemicals help to reduce pain and promote a sense of well-being
-
Reduction of Inflammation: Acupuncture can also help reduce inflammation by promoting the release of anti-inflammatory substances in the body. This can help alleviate pain associated with inflammatory conditions.
-
Improvement of Blood Flow: Acupuncture can improve blood flow to specific areas of the body, which can help in the healing process and reduce pain.
​
These mechanisms work together to provide a holistic approach to pain management,
addressing both the symptoms and
underlying causes of pain.
​
Interesting Articles
Interesting Articles proving efficacy of acupuncture.
​
DISCLAIMER: THIS WEBSITE DOES NOT PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE. The information, including but not limited to, text, graphics, images and other material contained on this website are for informational purposes only. No material on this site is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment and before undertaking a new health care regimen, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.