What is Acupuncture

What is Acupuncture

What is Acupuncture

Acupuncture is a major component of Traditional Chinese Medicine (T.C.M.). It is the oldest and most widely used form of medicine in the world and is continually evolving. By treating the root of the disease and not just the symptoms results last longer. Minute sterile needles (0.20 – 0.25mm) are inserted into various acupuncture points around the body to fix the problem. Over 120 conditions are recognised by the World Health Organisation (W.H.O.) which respond well to acupuncture.

There are a number of different forms, including traditional Chinese acupuncture, auricular (ear), scalp, Distal, Motor point, and abdominal acupuncture. I also use mirror/imaging techniques as practiced by Dr. Tan and  Master Tung’s acupuncture. All these microforms use comprehensive diagnostic principles to arrive at a unique treatment plan for you. Having such a broad spectrum of acupuncture systems ensures the best possible results for you. Dave Shipsey is a qualified acupuncturist and is registered with the AFPA

How does it work?

Acupuncture works in many different ways, there are lots of different systems, all of which assist the body to heal itself. It encourages and enhances the bodies natural healing mechanisms. This is achieved by improving the blood flow to the area by reducing inflammation or removing muscle spasms. Thus the body’s natural healing cells including immune cells can remove diseased and/or repair damaged cells. By improving the circulation, blood and nutrients will help to nourish and replenish damaged muscles, bones, tendons ligaments, and joints.

Because acupuncture stimulates the brain to release endorphins which give pain relief and other cellular messengers that instruct your body to repair itself. It also enables the body’s internal organs to repair themselves. By doing this your body will function better and maintain your good health. It regulates the body’s hormonal, blood, nervous, and regulatory systems. Therefore acupuncture can correct problems including muscular-skeletal, digestive, metabolic, immune, emotional, and reproductive issues. Here is a useful article showing some of the effects of acupuncture on the brain: The Guardian

Since acupuncture encourages natural healing processes, there are virtually no side effects making it extremely safe and effective, even during pregnancy.

What does acupuncture feel like?

There is minimal discomfort from the needles, especially with abdominal acupuncture.

Since needles used are minute (0.20-0.25mm gauge) and are designed to pass easily and painlessly through the skin. Thus the sensation from each point varies and is quite pleasant, often described as a warm radiating or tingling sensation.
Because the treatment often results in people feeling so comfortable and relaxed they fall asleep or drift off. As a result this feeling of total relaxation and “Bliss”  can stay with you for hours and even days. As well as relief from a particular issue people often report that other problems have also disappeared.

Benefits.

In summary you should experience some or all of the benefits listed below. Because benefits are wide and varied and often cover all areas of one’s life (mental, emotional & physical).  Contact me if you would like a more accurate assessment of the benefits that you are likely to get. Here is a list of some of the benefits you can expect to get from acupuncture;

  • Improves your health and general well being.
  • An end of your Symptoms and the root cause of your illness.
  • Pain Relief and/ or complete Elimination of Pain.
  • Relieves stress in all its forms and manifestations.
  • Relaxes Body & Mind to facilitate better more refreshing sleep for you.
  • Increases your Energy, Vitality, and concentration.
  • Aids your digestion and can help with weight loss.
  • Stimulates your immune function thereby improving resistance to/recovery from infection.
  • Boost’s your fertility (male & female).
  • Helps to cure insomnia and emotional problems.
  • Facilitates recovery from injury/illness.