Acupuncture why does it work

These pathways create an energy flow Qi, pronounced "chee" through the body that is responsible for overall health. Disruption of the energy flow can cause disease. By applying acupuncture to certain points, it is thought to improve the flow of Qi, thereby improving health.

Acupuncture is not for everyone. If you choose to see an acupuncturist, discuss it with your doctor first and find a practitioner who is licensed as having proper training and credentials. Acupuncture is done using hair-thin needles. Most people report feeling minimal pain as the needle is inserted. The needle is inserted to a point that produces a sensation of pressure or ache.

Needles may be heated during the treatment or mild electric current may be applied to them. Some people report acupuncture makes them feel energized. Others say they feel relaxed. Improper placement of the needle can cause pain during treatment. Needles must be sterilized to prevent infection. Incorporating acupuncture into real life. How do I find an acupuncturist?

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Medically reviewed by Timothy J. Legg, Ph. What Is Moxibustion? Medically reviewed by Kerry Boyle D. Acupuncture and Acupressure May Ease Pain Associated with Cancer Experts say acupuncture and acupressure can reduce the amount of opioids that people with cancer take. Case-controlled clinical studies have shown that acupuncture has been an effective treatment for the following diseases, symptoms or conditions:.

The following diseases, symptoms or conditions have limited but probable evidence to support the therapeutic use of acupuncture:. Acupuncturist licensure is regulated on the state level. All of our acupuncturists are licensed by the State of California Acupuncture Board and have years of clinical experience in the field.

The best way to discover if acupuncture is right for you is to schedule a visit at the most convenient location -- Scripps Ranch, La Jolla, or Hillcrest. Acupuncture is covered by many health insurance plans, but not all. If your plan covers acupuncture, our staff will bill your insurance company for the service and you will be responsible for any co-payments required.

If your plan does not cover acupuncture, you may still receive the service for a cash fee. Cash, checks and all major credit cards are accepted. Please inquire for more details at To schedule an appointment, view our acupuncture providers and locations here. The needles used are very fine and are usually a few centimetres long. They should be single-use, pre-sterilised needles that are disposed of immediately after use. Acupuncture practitioners choose specific points to place the needles based on your condition.

Several points may be used during a typical session, depending on the number of symptoms you have. The needles may be inserted just under the skin, or deeper so they reach muscle.

Once the needles are in place, they may be left in position for a length of time lasting from a few minutes up to around 30 minutes. You may feel a tingling or a dull ache when the needles are inserted but you should not experience any significant pain.

If you do, let your practitioner know straight away. If you choose to have acupuncture, it is recommended that you check the acupuncture practitioner is either a regulated healthcare professional such as a doctor, nurse or physiotherapist or a member of a national acupuncture organisation. You can find an accredited register of acupuncture practitioners on the Professional Standards Authority for Health and Social Care website.

When it's done by a qualified practitioner, acupuncture is generally very safe. Rarely, some people experience mild, short-term side effects such as:.