Acupuncture
The most well-known method of Chinese Medicine in the west is acupuncture, which was brought to Europe by Jesuit priests in the 17th century. The present form of therapy practiced today, that correspond to the Chinese standard, exists approximately since 70 years.
One of the principles of Chinese Medicine is that Qi channels (vital energy meridians) exist in the body, connecting the internal organs to the external aspects of the body. In acupuncture, very fine needles are placed in very specific points (sometimes translated as cavities) along meridians. The function of acupuncture is to regulate the Qi flow of the body; thus, acupuncture optimizes communication between the organs, as well as promotes the body’s ability to heal itself. There are 12 regular meridians that correspond to 12 internal organs, 8 extraordinary meridians and Tendino-muscular meridians, on which 365 points exist. There are also extra points that do not correspond to the meridians but are experience points, which pertain to relieving specific symptoms.
Sometimes other methods are used in combination with acupuncture needles, such as moxibustion, electrical stimulation and cupping. During a treatment, 1 to 24 needles may be utilized; the duration, dependent on the condition, can range from 10 minutes (for common colds) to 75 minutes (acute migraine). Laser Acupuncture utilizes laser stimulation on points and no needles are inserted in the body.
One of the principles of Chinese Medicine is that Qi channels (vital energy meridians) exist in the body, connecting the internal organs to the external aspects of the body. In acupuncture, very fine needles are placed in very specific points (sometimes translated as cavities) along meridians. The function of acupuncture is to regulate the Qi flow of the body; thus, acupuncture optimizes communication between the organs, as well as promotes the body’s ability to heal itself. There are 12 regular meridians that correspond to 12 internal organs, 8 extraordinary meridians and Tendino-muscular meridians, on which 365 points exist. There are also extra points that do not correspond to the meridians but are experience points, which pertain to relieving specific symptoms.
Sometimes other methods are used in combination with acupuncture needles, such as moxibustion, electrical stimulation and cupping. During a treatment, 1 to 24 needles may be utilized; the duration, dependent on the condition, can range from 10 minutes (for common colds) to 75 minutes (acute migraine). Laser Acupuncture utilizes laser stimulation on points and no needles are inserted in the body.