NATIONAL ACUPUNCTURE AND ORIENTAL MEDICINE DAY

by Christina Captain, DAOM, MSAOM, MSHN, MA

Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine Day is observed annually on October 24. since its initial commemoration in 2002. It is part of an effort designed to increase public awareness of the progress, promise and benefits of acupuncture and Oriental Medicine.

What Is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture, a single modality in the complete medical model of Oriental Medicine. is between 4,000 and 6,000 years old. The World Health Organization recognizes over 43 common disorders that acupuncture and Oriental Medicine can effectively treat.

Some of these include respiratory disorders such as asthma and allergies; musculoskeletal disorders such as joint pain and arthritis; gastrointestinal disorders such as acid reflux and irritable bowel syndrome; gynecological disorders such as painful menstruation and menopausal symptoms; infertility; urinary disorders such as incontinence and sexual dysfunction; psychological disorders such as depression; skin disorders; and endocrine disorders.

Acupuncture can also be used as a complementary treatment for chemo and radiation therapies. This list only represents some of the complaints that can be effectively addressed with acupuncture and Oriental Medicine.

How Does Acupuncture Work?

One aspect of Traditional Chinese Medical theory on which acupuncture is based, is the theory of qi (chi) and meridians. Qi is the vital substance that animates the human body to help all of its systems and organs function properly. Qi must be in ample supply and must flow smoothly without obstruction through the meridians.

Meridians are pathways that the qi flows through. Each meridian is connected to an organ, and has several branches throughout the body. Imagine these meridians are streams off a larger river, and the water that flows through the streams is qi flowing through meridian pathways. Imagine the trees lining the banks of the streams fell and blocked the flow of the water through the stream. If we think of this as the qi being blocked, then we have a stagnation or stoppage of the flow of qi. This stagnation translates into pain or system dysfunction.

Acupuncture and herbs allow us to manipulate the flow of qi in the body to relieve pain and restore organ system function. For example, if you experience neck injury in a car accident which results in pain, then theoretically, the qi in your neck is blocked, and an acupuncture treatment can help to relieve the pain by restoring the smooth flow of qi.

A more scientific theory on acupuncture’s mechanism of action is that it is based on a series of responses by the nervous, hormonal and vascular systems of the body. Common acupuncture effects include the secretion and regulation of neuro-hormones such as serotonin, dopamine, enkephalin and endorphins.

The production of these substances creates a balance at the biochemical level of the body which can imbue a feeling of peace and wellness. There are several well reviewed studies that support acupuncture’s efficacy in the treatment of low backpain, opioid addiction and chemotherapy induced neuropathy.

What Are the Credentials of Acupuncture Physicians?

In the state of Florida, acupuncture physicians are required to complete a five academic year course of study after meeting the mandatory prerequisites for acceptance, resulting in a Master’s degree. After completing the required didactic and clinical coursework, four National Board examination tests must be passed and malpractice insurance obtained before a license will be issued. Chapter 457 of the Florida code describes acupuncture physicians as primary care practitioners who can order and utilize laboratory testing.

Acupuncture physicians are regulated under the same federal laws and rules of the Healthcare Privacy Act. Specialization in the form of an advanced practice Doctoral degree is soon to be the terminal degree in the field. Individuals with an advanced practice Doctoral degree utilize the initials DAOM. It is crucial to receive acupuncture from a licensed acupuncturist or Doctor of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine. I compare it to taking your car to a plumber and hoping for the best when you receive acupuncture from someone without an acupuncture education and board certification.

Who Has Received Acupuncture?

Nearly one in 10 adults (approximately 20 million people) in the United States has received acupuncture, and 60 percent agree they would readily consider acupuncture as a treatment option, according to a national survey from the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine. Nearly half of the individuals surveyed who had received acupuncture reported they were “extremely” or “very” satisfied with their treatment.

Why Not Try Acupuncture for Yourself?

The truth is, you miss all the shots you do not attempt. So why not give acupuncture a try? You have nothing to lose. Seek out qualified licensed practitioners and experience complementary medicine for yourself. NCCAOM.org is the national accrediting body for acupuncture physicians. Visit this website to find a board-certified practitioner in your area.

Dr. Christina Captain, DAOM, MSAOM, MSHN, MA, AP, is nationally board-certified by the National Commission for Certification in Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM). She is the lead practitioner at Sarasota Center for Acupuncture and Nutrition. Her practice is located at 2650 Bahia Vista Street, Suite 101, Sarasota. For more information, call 941951-1119 or email DrCaptain@SCANsrq.com.