The idea of needles tends to make people shy away from acupuncture as a form of therapy. Contrary to popular belief, acupuncture is a relatively painless treatment that can be used for a variety of different ailments. Relief from everything from allergies to chronic pain to emotional disorders is among the many benefits of acupuncture.

A Versatile Treatment

Acupuncture can be used in the treatment for a wide variety of ailments, making it one of the most versatile forms of therapy. Physical issues like back and neck pain, knee pain, muscle spasms, headaches, and arthritis can benefit from targeted acupuncture treatment. The benefits of acupuncture can also be felt in the treatment of other immune-related problems, such as allergies and digestive issues. Those with sleep or emotional disorders can also benefit from acupuncture. The ability to treat so many different kinds of problems makes acupuncture a unique form of therapy to be incorporated into any regular care regimen.

How Does Acupuncture Work?

Acupuncture is a technique that stimulates specific channels in the body to “balance the flow of energy or life force.” It is believed that a flow called “chi” is the difference between the sick and the healthy and the imbalance of chi is when illness, pain, and other disorders can occur.

There are a variety of techniques that stimulate the benefits of acupuncture. The most common technique uses thin, metal needles that puncture the skin in one of the hundreds of acupoints throughout the body. Depending on the needs of the patient, ten to twenty needles will be inserted across a specific meridian in the body.

This targeted stimulation of specific channels helps balance the chi within the body, which in turn can relieve pain, illness, and other disorders. Learn more about the history and application of acupuncture.

Did You Say Needles...

The idea of needles can make many people squeamish, which is often why acupuncture is not already a part of their regular care routine. The technique uses specialized needles that are small enough to fit inside of a standard needle that may be used for a shot or to draw blood. This means that patients can reap the benefits of acupuncture in a relatively pain-free setting.

What To Expect At An Acupuncture Appointment

When you go to see an acupuncturist, it is much like any other health appointment. The specialist will speak with you to get a sense of any problems you are experiencing and the goals you hope to reach. A physical exam will follow so the acupuncturist can determine if there are any vital organs that are contributing to a chi imbalance. From there, the acupuncturist will place small, single-use needle along specific meridians and continuously examine for energy flow. The needles will remain along the meridians for a short period of time, after which they will be removed and you can go about your day. It is recommended that you drink plenty of water following an acupuncture appointment to assist the detoxifying process.

Experience The Benefits Of Acupuncture In Denver

The research on the benefits of acupuncture is ongoing, but it is an established form of therapy for many ailments from chronic pain to sleep and emotional disorders. Working with an experienced acupuncturist has been shown to provide lasting relief.

If you're interested in learning more about the benefits of acupuncture to relieve your chronic pain or illness, contact Dr. Funk at Ideal Health today for a consultation.