Acupuncture is an ancient system of Traditional Chinese Medicine [TCM] first recorded in the Stone Age. The Chinese believe that the body contains invisible channels, known as meridians, which circulate vital energy and join a series of acupuncture points. The energy, known as QI, has deep and superficial components, which need to be in harmony for good health.
Acupuncture points and their associated meridians have been identified over the centuries and can be tonified or sedated depending on deficiency or excess of energy.
Acupuncture has been used in the Western world since the 19th Century. It is believed to work by modifying pain transmission at the spinal cord level through the Gate Control Theory proposed by Melzack and Wall. It also stimulates the sustained release of endorphins in the cerebro-spinal fluid and encephalons in the serum, both of which are natural opiates.
The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) provides guidelines for the treatment and care of patients.
Acupuncture is commonly used for chronic tension-type headaches migraines and stress reated problems. Also often used to treat other musculoskeletal conditions (of the bones and muscles) and pain conditions, including:
- chronic pain, such as neck pain
- joint pain
- dental pain
- postoperative pain