In both philosophies, acupuncture treatments are typically performed by needles inserted into the channels of energy which are called meridians, located throughout the body just underneath the skin surface. Needles are left in places typically for 10-20 minutes. Very commonly acupuncture can be used with fingertip pressure, electrical stimulation, and numerous other techniques which do not involve using a needle.
Recently, acupuncture has been in the news due to the National Institute of Health recognizing it as a proven alternative treatment. Acupuncture can be used in the treatment of numerous health conditions, most of which are related to pain management.
Typical ailments reported in literature include neuralgias, headaches, trigeminal neuralgia, tics, spasms, muscular rheumatism, neuralgia of the shoulders and arm, tennis elbow, osteoarthritis, rheumatism, ulcers, stomach problems, diarrhea, hepatitis, asthma, bronchitis, shortness of breath, coughs, certain types of heart trouble, abnormal blood pressures, hemorrhoids, lumbago, bladder irritation, bed wetting, certain kidney problems, female disorders, impotence, glaucoma (sometimes), weak eyesight, hay fever, loss of smell, tonsillitis, loss of hearing, skin conditions, and even nervous and psychiatric factors based on the fact that mental problems often arise from physical disorders.
On the average, a very high percentage of patients will respond satisfactory to acupuncture treatment; however, some patients do not respond due to a variety of reasons. Advanced age, severity of condition, irreversible tissue damage, etc., are deterrents to recovery. However, in conjunction with chiropractic, physical therapy, and acupuncture, the odds are very favorable for a good response.
*Read this article written by Dr. Seyoung Kim for "BragBook Magazine" in Issue 4: Summer/Fall 2011