Definition of Acupuncture:
Acupuncture is an ancient healing art that is part of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). It aims to restore health through stimulation of certain points on the body. Western practitioners of acupuncture incorporate elements of practice used in China, Japan, and Korea. In many parts of the world it is considered complementary and alternative medicine (CAM).How Acupuncture Works:
Acupuncture involves the insertion of fine needles into specific points on the body. These points are located along meridians on the surface of the body through which TCM practitioners believe energy, or qi (pronounced “chee”), flows. As long as energy is flowing in a balanced fashion, according to the practice, our bodies remain in a state of health. Blockages in the flow of energy lead to pain and disease. Acupuncture is thought to restore this balance.Acupuncture and Migraines:
Acupuncture is considered a reasonable alternative to traditional headache treatments given its safety and anecdotal success. Researchers involved in one review compared results of over 30 clinical trials involving acupuncture and either migraine headaches or tension-type headaches. It appears that acupuncture may still be a valuable non-medicinal treatment for headaches.Safety of Acupuncture:
Acupuncture, when practiced properly, is a relatively safe and side-effect free procedure. The FDA regulates needles used by qualified practitioners to assure safety standards. Be sure your practitioner cleans each needle insertion site with alcohol and uses a new set of sterile needles for each patient to prevent infection. If acupuncture is not performed properly, damage to internal organs can occur, but this is exceedingly rare.Acupuncture Practitioners:
Each state in the United States has different criteria for who can perform acupuncture, but it is a licensed profession in nearly all 50. Practitioners trained in TCM are typically referred to as Licensed Acupuncturists (L.Ac.), but physicians (M.D. or D.O.) who have received the proper training can also perform acupuncture. In some states, chiropractors, dentists or other health professionals are also qualified to become acupuncturists. You can contact your state’s medical licensing organization to verify proper certification procedures locally.Sources:
”An introduction to acupuncture.” National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM). NCCAM Publication No. D404. Created: December 2007. Accessed: February 15, 2009.
Linde K, et al "Acupuncture for migraine prophylaxis" Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2009; 1: CD001218. DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD001218.pub2
Linde K, et al "Acupuncture for tension-type headache" Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2009; 1: CD007587. DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD007587.
