Acupuncture is considered by many to be an effective, tried and tested healing system which has been used for thousands of years. The various types of acupuncture use needling techniques whereby acupuncture needles are inserted to identified points which can be found all over the body. These points are considered to have little whirlpools of energy (qi) at them and they are all connected to various body parts and organs via pathways or channels which are called meridians. The traditional origins of acupuncture lie in the basis that disease is caused by problems with energy (qi) which runs along pathways (meridians) and can be affected positively or negatively by the five elements, yin and yang and other interior and exterior factors. When …show more content…
Medical acupuncture, which is also called scientific acupuncture, believes that the insertion of the needles in the points stimulate the nerve endings, having a variety of …show more content…
Acupuncture helps by removing these obstructions and restoring the natural flow of energy or qi along the meridians of the body. In the TCM concept of disease, disharmony has been caused by a variety of possibilities and through correct and thorough diagnosis the aim is to harmonise the system again. World Health Organization (WHO) and Acupuncture Today, even the World Health Organization (WHO) recognises the benefits that acupuncture brings about. According to WHO, acupuncture is effective in treating a number of illnesses associated with the respiratory, digestive, circulatory and reproductive systems of the body. Acupuncture is also effective in correcting the imbalances in the major organs of the body. Basically, acupuncture helps in preventing the onset of diseases, treating minor to life-threatening medical conditions and in promoting the overall health and fitness of an individual. Typical Acupuncture Course A course of acupuncture sessions can be composed of varied amount of sessions and each session lasts for 30 - 45 minutes on average. Acupuncturists are required to use sterilised, thin and solid needles that are usually made from stainless