What is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture has been used for many centuries in the countries of Japan, China and Korea. It follows an entirely different philosophy from Western medicine, which is based on individual organ functions and systems based on those organ functions. When one organ is affected, it can affect, in some cases (eg. the liver) many systems that depend on it’s proper functioning (eg. circulatory, digestive)

In Chinese theory, there is always a proper balance to all organ function. The yin and yang of each organ and system must always be balanced so there is neither excess or deficiency. Organs affect channels or meridians through the body (12 main channels) that are linked to all symptoms that may present themselves in a patient. By affecting the energy flow through these channels, by either herbs ot at the acupuncture points, one can re-establish a balance for that organ and affect the system the organ works within. Organs in Chinese medicine do not just function as Western medicine defines but have much broader physical and emotional functions.

Acupuncture can also, by the presence of the needle in the tissue stimulate einkephalens and endorphins that act like natural pain killers and reduce inflammation in an area. The natural energy flow that should be found in an area can be restored, making the blockage in an area or joint be removed so that the joint becomes less inflamed, circulation is restored, and movement becomes easier.

Acupuncture can also be used to remove emotional blockages, for example, addictions to nicotine or overeating, cravings of various kinds, and excessive conditions such as anger or timidity based on malfunctions of certain organs. The Shen, for example, is considered the resting place of the mind and is found in the heart. So the heart is thought to affect sleep, dreams, restlessness, etc.

Certain foods are considered hot, neutral or cold and can also affect the organs if diet is excess in certain areas, for example, sugar can affect the spleen causing swelling and dampness in joints.

Diagnoses are made using external signs: pulses on both arms, facial features, features and colour of the tongue, etc.

There is no need for X-rays, arterial dyes  or barium enemas.