Facts about Acupuncture Some people swear acupuncture is a cure-all for many things. Acupuncture Facts Acupuncture has been used for many years, primarily in eastern culture; however, it is gaining popularity in the west. Many people say that acupuncture is effective in treating numerous conditions, although experts say the jury is still out. What is acupuncture? Acupuncture is a component of the health care system of China that can be traced back at least 2,500 years. The general concept of acupuncture is based on the premise that there are patterns of energy flow through the body that are essential for health. Disruptions of this flow are believed to be responsible for disease. Acupuncture may, according to some, correct imbalances of flow at identifiable points close to the skin. The practice of acupuncture to treat identifiable pathophysiological (disease) conditions in American medicine was rare until the visit of President Richard M. Nixon to China in 1972. Since that time, there has been an explosion of interest in the United States and Europe in the application of the technique of acupuncture to Western medicine. Acupuncture is a family of procedures involving stimulation of anatomical locations on or in the skin by a variety of techniques. There are a variety of approaches to diagnosis and treatment in American acupuncture that incorporates medical traditions from China, Japan, Korea, and other countries. The most thoroughly studied mechanism of stimulation of acupuncture points employs penetration of the skin by thin, solid, metallic needles, which are manipulated manually or by electrical stimulation. Related: What is Prader Willi Syndrome? American standards for acupuncture needles After reviewing the existing body of knowledge, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) removed acupuncture needles from the category of "experimental medical devices." The FDA now regulates acupuncture needles, just as it does other devices such as surgical scalpels and hypodermic syringes, under good manufacturing practices and single-use standards of sterility. Visit some countries that offer acupuncture, and you will see, the same needles are used repeatedly, a very unhealthy practice. Patients should also be warned of the risk of infection. They should be aware of any signs of irritation, and report them to their health care provider.
Many people say that they suffered from conditions such as chronic back pain, migraines, PMS, depression, and several more, say that acupuncture puts an end to their chronic condition. It would be almost impossible to conduct a blind study of acupuncture, so the proof of it being successful may never be acknowledged. Of course say that to a patient that swears acupuncture has made live tolerable again, and they will defend the technique. The evidence leans toward acupuncture being a viable option to many problems; however, there is no factual, scientific evidence to back it up. Advice for Patients If you have a patient that is planning to give acupuncture a try, there are some considerations that they should know prior to their first visit. Studios should come from referrals if possible, and if not, patients should do a complete check, including reviews and any complaints lodged. Anytime needles are involved, and the procedure is not being conducted by medical personnel, every precaution should be taken to protect one's safety. Related: Working with Family as a Nurse Patients that practice acupuncture should have this on their medical chart. Routine inspection of the skin can prevent infections; also it is advisable that patients shower after a session, to ensure skin is clean. A Patient’s Perspective Marilyn suffered from irritable bowel syndrome and arthritis for many years. She tried pain medications, stomach remedies, exercise, and according to her; you name it, she tried it. So when a friend invited her on a trip to the Far East, Marilyn thought maybe some relaxation away from doctors and pharmacies might do her some good. Marilyn noticed acupuncture clinics were very common while traveling, and after some investigating, and learning they had strict regulations and licensing procedures, she decided to visit one. According to Marilyn, her life would take a gigantic turn after just the first visit. Her stomach was no longer in knots, and she said her arthritis has improved by at least 50%. Upon returning home Marylyn found reputable acupuncture clinics close to home, and followed up with monthly appointments. It had been a year, and Marilyn still swore by her decision to receive acupuncture. Whether or not it was actually what helped, according to her, there is no doubt that acupuncture works. Related: Reputable Registered Nurse Barbara A. Moyer, RN, MSN, EdD, BSN, will be Honorably Mentioned in the Worldwide Leaders in Healthcare
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