What Is Acupuncture?
Definition
The word acupuncture is derived from the Latin words acus, meaning needle, and punctura, meaning puncture. In clinical practice, very fine needles are inserted into selected points of the body for a defined period of time by a trained practitioner.
Acupuncture has a long historical background. Traditional acupuncture describes pathways known as meridians and a network of points associated with the regulation of bodily functions. Modern clinical practice also evaluates acupuncture through neurological, muscular, circulatory and pain-modulating mechanisms.
Acupuncture points
Acupuncture points are selected according to the patient's complaint, examination findings and treatment goals. The same diagnosis does not necessarily mean that every patient receives exactly the same combination of points.
Depending on the condition, points may be selected near the painful area and at distant locations such as the hands, feet, arms, legs or ears.
How a session is performed
Before treatment, the physician reviews the patient's medical history, current medications, previous diagnoses and symptoms. Sterile, single-use needles are then inserted into the selected points. The needles are generally left in place for a limited period while the patient rests.
The number and frequency of sessions vary according to the condition, duration of symptoms and individual response. A treatment course may be adjusted after follow-up assessments.
How acupuncture may work
Acupuncture may influence pain perception, muscle tension, local circulation and nervous-system responses. Its effects may differ from one person to another, and results cannot be guaranteed.
For chronic conditions, acupuncture is often considered as one component of a broader treatment plan that may also include medical follow-up, exercise, rehabilitation, nutrition or medication when necessary.
Safety and medical assessment
Acupuncture should be performed by a qualified healthcare professional using sterile, single-use needles. Patients who use blood-thinning medication, have bleeding disorders, are pregnant, carry a pacemaker or have an active infection should inform the physician before treatment.
Acupuncture does not replace emergency care, necessary diagnostic tests or treatment for serious medical conditions. A physician's assessment is required to determine whether it is suitable for the individual patient.
