Ancient Chinese Wisdom And Weight Loss: Acupuncture

The Chinese are known for their ancient healing techniques that make use of nothing but nature's best. Once such technique is acupuncture which dates back 2,000 years.

Acupuncture is based on an ancient Chinese belief that the body is made up of mystical energy streams. This could be correlated with our knowledge of nerves today and that the nerves are all entwined with each other. The nerves for the shoulders may be next to the nerves for the toes. This means that by stimulating the nerves on the toes, you as well stimulate the nerves on the shoulders. Stimulating one nerve therefore will stimulate another.

Acupuncture does not promise to be a weight loss miracle. What it promises is to affect symptoms related to or that may contribute to weight gain to help being about weight control. Acupuncture therefore can help make weight loss easy and effective.

One example is stress. Stress has been identified as a key factor in certain people's weight gain. Some people feel the need or urge to eat a lot when they are stressed and they find comfort in doing so. Acupuncture can help promote stress relief and relaxation.

Acupuncture for weight loss involves inserting needles in specific areas or points of the body through which endorphins are known to pass through, to promote calming and relaxing effects.

Endorphins are also known to affect the digestive system, especially metabolism. Therefore, by targeting these points in acupuncture, it is hoped that weight loss can be promoted.

A visit to an acupuncturist for weight loss begins with an assessment of one's general health. Pulse points are checked, along with the stomach and tongue.

When used to support weight loss goals, acupuncture counts the mouth as an important point, especially for impulsive eaters and heavy smokers.

It also focuses on the stomach for people who continue eating even if they are already full, and the endocrine system for water retention that can cause bloating and weight gain.

Other points act on the spleen for sugar imbalances, the kidneys for hormonal and nervous imbalances as well as water retention and the thyroid for metabolism. Two or more points will be chosen from these depending upon the health and needs of the patient.

Modern technology has also helped the art and science of acupuncture. The acupuncturist may use electro-stimulation to promote the release of endorphins and increase the relaxing and calming effects.

The needles usually stay on for around 30-45 minutes and the number of repeat sessions will depend upon the need of the patient, especially his weight loss goal.

The patient is also taught how to apply the pressure again afterwards for example, when he feels the strong urge to eat heavily or smoke again.

Acupuncture sessions may also be supplemented by herbal medicines as well as counseling on nutrition and lifestyle changes. The acupuncturist may even suggest combining acupuncture with other stress reduction methods. These methods may include yoga and meditation as well as breathing exercises.

Acupuncture is an ancient technique that up to this day promotes several health benefits. Like any other health options however, consistency and determination on the part of the patient is also required.

It does not promise a miraculous loss of weight but it promises to address the problems that lead to weight gain. In the process, the vicious cycle of eating heavily due to stress is put to halt so the weight loss process can proceed.

Acupuncture aims to promote harmonious flow of energy through the body for better health and life.

Elizabeth Radisson

Does Acupuncture Work?

Acupuncture Therapy

Chinese medicine is responsible for a number of natural therapies, and acupuncture is probably the best known of them. Basically, acupuncture works on the theory that your body contains energy centers at specific, strategic points. These energy centers are then linked to a particular part of the body. If you have a sore knee, for example, then the acupuncturist would locate the energy center links to that knee. This could well be located in a completely different part of the body. That's the point where very thin needles are then inserted to stimulate the energy center. The result? The pain in your knee is reduced or removed entirely, by accessing the central nervous system through the acupuncture point.

Acupuncture is used to treat many conditions, but pain relief is the most common. It's an odd concept - inserting needles into your body to reduce pain! But plenty of people find acupuncture. It's believed that as well as stimulating energy centers, acupuncture stimulates the production of endorphins, known as "feel good" chemicals, which also helps reduce the pain.

Other research has shown that acupuncture can assist the immune system by stimulating the production of white blood cells. It's also been shown that Alpha, Beta and Gamma Globulins increase after acupuncture therapy, and these assist in fighting infection and producing immune antibodies. Recently, acupuncture has been used to assist people recovering from alcohol and drug addiction. Acupuncture focuses on reducing cravings and withdrawal symptoms, tension, and inducing a feeling of relaxation.

Sports people at the highest level have turned to acupuncture therapy to help improve both their training and performance. Muscle tension inhibits performance, and acupuncture releases tension in both muscles and the surround tissue, as well improving the efficiency of the nervous, circulatory and lymphatic systems. Acupuncture can also be used to speed up recovery rates from injury and manage pain.

Allergies also respond well to acupuncture therapy. Harmless substances can cause the immune system to overreact, leading to an allergic reaction. Many allergies are triggered by common environmental factors such as dust, pollen and chemicals. Many people also suffer from food allergies, which can be triggered by wheat, milk and shellfish, amongst other things. Allergies are uncomfortable - stuffy nose, watery eyes and sneezing. In some sufferers, allergy reaction can result in extreme symptoms such as kidney problems, joint pain and depression. Detoxifying the body and strengthening the immune system with acupuncture helps reduce or eliminate allergic reactions.

Many people turn to acupuncture therapy for more serious issues, such as bronchitis, asthma, hypertension and ulcers. Western medicine struggles to understand how acupuncture manages to be so effective, but the results speak for themselves. Some suggest that believing acupuncture will work is the reason it does, but that hasn't been proven. Sometimes, for more chronic conditions, massage and herbal remedies are used together with acupuncture therapy.

Other health issues that often respond well to acupuncture include PMS, chronic fatigue syndrome, stress, menopause and menstruation problems. If you're interested in trying acupuncture therapy, find yourself a reputable local practitioner, then ring and have a chat with them about your health problems. This will give them the opportunity to say whether or not they think acupuncture can help you. The only way to know for sure is to give it a go.

Steve Dolan

How Chinese Acupuncture Does not Use Any Kind of Medication

It is difficult to imagine that one can get rid of physical pain and mental stress without succumbing to expensive medical treatments. Have you ever heard about Chinese acupuncture? All this is possible with the help of Chinese acupuncture. Acupuncture helps the immune system of our body get rid of the diseases and painful conditions. Acupuncture is a technique of applying pinpointed pressure to certain tiny yet key areas on our body. Acupuncture has had revolutionary effects on treating progressive diseases. It is believed that the acupuncture therapy was invented in ancient China. It is associated with Traditional Chinese medicine also known as TCM. Chinese acupuncture follows the authentic and traditional principles of acupuncture that were developed many years ago in order to treat different types of ailments.

Chinese acupuncture does not use any kind of medication. However, it cannot be declared as an absolute alternative treatment. Chinese acupuncture is effective for treatment of progressive chronic diseases. In ancient times, it was even used as a first aid treatment for emergencies. Acupuncture stimulates flow of energy and helps to remove toxic from body. Chinese acupuncture works by stimulating specific points in body called as acupuncture points. It is not mandatory to use needles to stimulate acupuncture points. Rather it can be done efficiently even without needles by lasers as well as by electro-acupuncture equipments.

Chinese acupuncture even controls lung functions through certain breathing techniques. It reduces asthma attacks and normalizes skin pores. It controls mental activities and has cleansing effect on the body. It helps to increase body resistance by formulating white blood cells and antibodies. It regulates Pancreas's functions so as to secret insulin to control blood sugar in the body. Acupuncture helps Pancreas to transport energy from blood to lung and provides energy to all parts of the body. Acupuncture releases all toxic chemical from your body and enhances the flow of biochemicals in the body. Analgesia, Sedation, motor recovery, homeostasis and increase in immunity are some of the physiological effects produced due to biochemicals. Analgesia means relief from pain and useful in headache. Increase in immunity is especially essential to deal with flu as well as the cold virus. Sedation helps to prevent anxiety. Homeostasis helps to maintain equilibrium and permanent Paralysis is prevented by motor recovery.

With the help of Chinese acupuncture, you can increase your height to a considerable level until 25 years of age. Nervous deafness occurs due to physiological changes that occur in internal ear and nervous system. Deafness also impairs the patient's speech ability. All this can be controlled with the help of Chinese acupuncture. In patients having high myopia i.e. refractory errors in eyes, acupuncture gives best results.

Even eye diseases like night blindness, adverse effect of hypertension and diabetes on eyes, retinal bleeding, cataract in early stages, glaucoma, and diabetic retinopathy can control with the help of acupuncture. Skin diseases are caused by excessive use of cosmetics, emotional stress, and junk food habits. Dark circles, pimples, pigmentation, hair falling can reduce with the help of Chinese acupuncture. Gynecological problems like irregular periods, infertility, menopausal syndrome are curable by using acupuncture. Urinary disorders, cardio vascular problems, endocrine problems, gastro intestinal problems can also be treated by using Chinese acupuncture. Neurological disorders such as migraines, sinus, paralysis, comatose, parkinsonism', cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, epilepsy, brain stroke respond well to Chinese acupuncture.

Muna wa Wanjiru

Fundamentals Of Acupuncture

Acupuncture is an important part of Chinese traditional medicine. It has more than two thousand years history and plays an important role on human health in China. In Tang dynasty, it spreads to Japan, Indian and other southeast Asia countries. In the past two decades, acupuncture has grown in popularity in the United States. Millions U.S. adults have ever used it. Now acupuncture is one of the oldest and most commonly used medical procedures in the world.

The term acupuncture involves positioning long, thin needles on various points on the body. There are different techniques to the insertion of the needles, including care for the angles at which they are inserted, different types of needles (there are nine, but most practitioners only use six types of the needles), and various ways to twirl or vibrate the needles. The needles are placed on the body depending upon the ailment of the patient.

Acupuncture has good effect on many diseases, even including some strange diseases. There are two main effects of acupuncture.

The first main effect of acupuncture is pain relief. This is the prominent characteristic of acupuncture and it is often used on all sorts of acute and chronic pain, such as headache, menstrual cramps, tennis elbow, fibromyalgia, myofascial pain, osteoarthritis and back pain. According to the theory of Chinese traditional medicine, health is achieved by maintaining the body in a "balanced state" and pain is caused by disruptions in the energy flow patterns (Qi) in the body. By acupuncture therapy, these imbalances are corrected through puncturing identifiable points and pain is alleviated.

The second main effect of acupuncture is adjustment of organism functions. Treatment scope of acupuncture is very wide because it doesn't treat diseases through medicine, but it adjusts organism functions. It is proposed that acupuncture produces its effects through regulating the nervous system, thus aiding the activity of pain-killing biochemicals such as endorphins and immune system cells at specific sites in the body. In addition, studies have shown that acupuncture may alter brain chemistry by changing the release of neurotransmitters and neurohormones and, thus, affecting the parts of the central nervous system related to sensation and involuntary body functions, such as immune reactions and processes that regulate a person's blood pressure, blood flow, and body temperature. With the adjustment effect of acupuncture, it can be used on many chronic diseases, such as addiction, stroke rehabilitation and asthma.

Acupuncture is safe and side effects are minor, but since acupuncture involves puncturing the skin with needles, the potential does exist for harmful effects to occur, such as accidental puncture of lung that can lead to pneumothorax and bacterial infection from acupuncture needles. a qualified acupuncturist can avoid such side effects.

Health and sense of well being can be maintained with acupuncture, research and thousands of years practice verifies its positive effects. Patients can try it and benefit from this wonderful treatment.

Michaele Lee

Acupuncture Versus Western Medicine

When one thinks of acupuncture, what are some of the images that typically come to mind? Instantly, though, a picture of a black kettle pot with a bunch of concoctions and needles should come to mind. On the other hand, acupuncture therapy does not have to concoct such awful images in one's head. However, if you have ever thought about the possibility that acupuncture may be able to replace Western medicine you are sorely mistaken. On the other hand, there are some important distinctions between the two fundamental ideas of medicine, and in this article the idea of acupuncture will go head to head in an effort to compete against Western medicine.

Science Versus Intuition

The basic idea behind Western medicine is the knowledge and science behind every treatment that we can see. Acupuncture, though, is not considered one of those treatments. Consider for a moment all the monumental effects that taking one prescription medication can have on the body. Many advocates of Western medicine continue to say that the United States has the best idea of medicine throughout all the world, but is it really true? Even though the affects of prescription drugs are so great on the body and mind, do we truly know everything that the treatment does to individuals, or is there a whole laundry list of side effects that could go wrong?

On the other hand, acupuncture medicine is mostly based on and rooted in the fact that many thousands and millions of Chinese individuals have been able to quickly, easily, and efficiently beat out the diseases and disorder that were experienced. Instead of relying on solid facts and science to prove that this alternative medicine approach works, intuition and feeling is relied heavily upon in order for the whole process of acupuncture to take root and verify itself to the patient.

The Benefits of Both

Even though there are great benefits to both the acupuncture method and treatments of Western medicine, one thing that we should consider is the downfalls of both approaches since there are probably less of them to consider. For Western medicine, though, an idea right off the bat that is undesirable is the fact that many patients and individuals get used to the medicine that they're given. They're bodies get used to it and they are left desensitized to being treated. In addition, many people have to take prescription medications their whole lives in order to keep some disorders at bay, such as Depression.

On the other hand, there are very little downsides to using acupuncture therapy except for the fact that no one is certain 100% of the time that the alternative therapy will work. Even though the same holds true for Western medicine, acupuncture should be more accurate in its treatments.

When one considers everything related to Western medicine, though, as opposed to acupuncture therapy, then chances are that he or she will truly see the benefit to using acupuncture. Acupuncture is a great alternative therapy that should never be turned down!

Universities and Colleges

Another way to seek out the help of a professional acupuncture therapist is to find one teaching inside an academic setting like a college or university. Just as there are doctors that also teach within medical schools, so too are there acupuncture therapists that teach in academic settings. Of course, if the college or university your are looking at does not have any acupuncture courses then chances are that there will be no one inside the school to have these kinds of resources available. On the other hand, if there is a course labeled "Alternative Therapy," then there is a very good chance that the professor in that course either is an acupuncture therapist himself, or can easily connect you with an acupuncture professional.

Massage Therapist Businesses

One type of business that may just be able to help with finding an acupuncture therapist are massage therapy organizations and businesses. The main reason this is so, though, is because many massage therapy businesses actually use acupuncture therapy along with the massages that are done. In fact, massage therapy is a great complement to acupuncture therapy, so there very well may be an acupuncture professional in the building.

All in all, these are great ways to go about finding an acupuncture therapist. If you have never had the chance to meet this kind of a therapist then chances are that you don't already know where to find one. But if you use one of these resources here then chances are great that an acupuncturist is right around the corner!

Abdus Sami

5 Reasons Why To Use Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is an ancient form of natural Chinese healing. It continues to be practiced in modern times in countries all around the globe to treat a wide variety of conditions and illnesses.

Acupuncture involves using extremely thin long needles, often described as ‘hair thin’. These needles are inserted in various points on the body to simulate the body’s own healing abilities.

Below are five of the common reasons that acupuncture is used today:

Acupuncture Controls Allergies

Allergic reactions occur when the immune system reacts to a substance that is normally harmless to most people. These substances can be environmental such as pollen and dust, or they can be from foods such as mild, peanuts, or shellfish. Allergies can cause mild reactions such as itchy, watery eyes and runny nose. Sometimes, more severe reactions occur as a result of an allergic reaction and these can be kidney failure, heart palpitations, depression, and joint pain. Acupuncture helps to detoxify the body so the immune system can be strengthened to the point that allergic reactions no longer occur.

Acupuncture Strengthens The Immune System

Studies have shown that acupuncture improves the body's natural resistance to disease and infection by strengthening the immune system. Acupuncture increases the level of white blood cells as well as alpha, beta, and gamma globulins. Gamma globulin helps the body produce immune antibodies and alpha and beta globulin assist the white blood cells in fighting infection.

Acupuncture Provides Pain Relief

Acupuncture triggers the release of the body's feel good chemicals, the endorphins. An increase in the level of endorphins helps to alleviate pain. Acupuncture further helps to provide pain relief by balancing the nerve impulses along the central nervous system.

Acupuncture Assists in Drug Recovery

Chemical dependency can be treated with acupuncture by helping to reduce the withdrawal symptoms from drugs and alcohol. Acupuncture helps to reduce cravings, relieves tension, and generally helps people relax. Acupuncture is used extensively in drug recovery due to these desirable benefits.

Acupuncture Relieves Stress

Traditional Chinese medicine teaches that stress is related to liver imbalance, so therefore the treatment for stress is using acupuncture to restore the energy balance in the liver. Once this is done, the muscles relax and the patient is stress free. Stress can lead to many serious life threatening diseases, so alleviating stress is an important benefit of having an acupuncture treatment.

The five reasons above are just a few of the many indications for using acupuncture. If you have a chronic condition, you should consider this alternative treatment.

Karina Jacobsen

Acupuncture Weight Loss, Is It Possible?

Most everyone has heard of acupuncture, but have you ever heard of acupuncture weight loss?

Acupuncture is a five thousand year old healing method that was discovered and developed in China. But few people know that acupuncture weight loss is one of the many possible benefits that acupuncture brings.

So how can acupuncture weight loss be a possibility?

Well, for those of us in the west, acupuncture itself; to say nothing of acupuncture weight loss, was unheard of until the nineteenth century. It took some time for us to warm to the idea of someone sticking several impossibly thin needles into our skin.

It would be even more time before we would accept the concept that acupuncture weight loss was another possibility for this strange eastern practice.

But the fact is that acupuncture weight loss is not only a possibility, acupuncture weight loss has become a workable option for many people who have struggled with the battle of the bulge.

Acupuncture weight loss approaches weight loss from a control point of view. It works by activating your body's endorphins, those feel good chemicals that our bodies all have.

By activating your endorphins, the acupuncture weight loss specialist is attempting to give you control over your cravings.

Your cravings are Acupuncture weight loss's main target in this fight. A wise person once said that you can resist anything except temptation.

Many people who battle their weight are tempted by cravings. Acupuncture weight loss tries to help fight those irresistible urges.

Acupuncture weight loss starts from the same basic concept as the rest of acupuncture, that is pressure points. To the educated acupuncture weight loss practitioner, the most important part of your body is behind your ear.

The human body has over one thousand pressure points, and yes the main acupuncture weight loss points lie behind your ear.

The acupuncture weight loss specialist will usually insert five needles at very specific points behind your ear. These five points each have a very important role to play in acupuncture weight loss. Four of these five points have a direct correlation to specific body organs, namely the lungs, liver, kidneys and nervous system.

The fifth acupuncture weight loss point is simply one of relaxation because after all, even acupuncture weight loss can't work if you're not relaxed.

As referred to earlier, the key to acupuncture weight loss is the release of endorphins. By stimulating the specific organs in the body endorphins are released and the acupuncture weight loss cycle is begun.

The endorphins, acupuncture weight losses best friend, and tied as they are to these specific organs of the body, then go to work on your cravings.

Acupuncture weight loss is successful when the endorphins help to diminish or eliminate your cravings for carbohydrates and decrease your appetite.

If these cravings and your over-active appetite can be controlled and decreased then acupuncture weight loss is successful.

So if nothing else has worked for you, perhaps its time to give acupuncture weight loss a chance.

Annie Beal

Benefits Of Acupuncture

Acupuncture is one of the oldest oriental forms of disease treatment that has been successful at treating different types of health conditions. One of the benefits of the process is the identification of many medical conditions that need attention. The benefits of acupuncture are immense and so many health practitioners are increasingly advocating this as a successful form of treatment. In fact the world health organization better known as WHO has recognized more than 40 forms of disease that can be effectively treated through acupuncture.

The benefit of acupuncture is not only about successfully treating a health condition, but it is also a very economical way of treating a health condition. There are many health conditions that can be successfully treated through acupuncture. Some of the health conditions are asthma, indigestion, high blood pressure, gynecological conditions and pains in different body parts. Acupuncture has also been found to be effective for helping people who are recovering form severe health conditions.

Treating of any disease through acupuncture is not all about needles. Yes, needles are an integral part of the treatment procedure but there are many more things to it then this. The theory behind this treatment process is that are two opposing forces in the human body. Traditional Chinese healers believed that the two forces are Yin the passive female force and Yang the active male force. For the body to function normally it is important that the two forces exist side by side in proper harmony. Any disturbance in the balance can lead to certain health problems.

Acupuncture has also been found to be immensely beneficial for weight loss. Studies and research have shown that there are more than 2000 acupuncture points in the human body. For treating any condition through acupuncture it is important to identify the proper pressure points in the body. Not identifying the proper point can make the condition more severe and can also create other medical problems. Make sure to seek treatment form a professional who has a proper knowledge about identifying the trigger points correctly.

Acupuncture is one form of treatment that has been found to be effective for successfully treating infertility. The process of acupuncture treatment differs from person to person. Consult a professional acupuncturist and he will perform certain tests to determine what exactly the condition is that you are suffering from. It can be due to low sperm count, blocked fallopian tubes or bad quality of eggs. After the condition is determined the professional can start the treatment procedure and give relief to the person.

Treatment results can vary from person to person. Also the duration of treatment can also differ from one person to another depending on various conditions. Any person can qualify to be treated through acupuncture. Your acupuncture therapist will need to know your health history properly if your condition is to be treated successfully.

There are many benefits of acupuncture, but that does not mean that you can seek treatment from anyone and everyone. Make sure that the acupuncture practitioner is professionally qualified before you seek treatment. After all, you are putting your life in their hands and do not want to be in a situation where there can be any risk to your health in general and most importantly, your life!

Marlin Shome

Acupuncture Certification Faqs

Find acupuncture certification programs in the United States and Canada. Acupuncture certification is an important step in practicing this alternative healing art. Students interested in earning the valuable credential of acupuncture certification must first complete required coursework and successfully graduate from one of several acupuncture schools.

In general, acupuncture certification programs extended through one of many Oriental medicine schools or acupuncture schools will include three or four-year studies to help students gain the necessary skills and knowledge to practice acupuncture. In addition to acupuncture needling techniques, students will learn about Chinese Medicine, principles, and philosophies; and will gain practical clinical and classroom training. In many cases, students who aspire to earn acupuncture certification will discover that many acupuncture schools will combine education in acupuncture with Oriental medicine, including courses in Tui Na, Tai Chi, Qi Gong, and medical Chinese terminology; and associated education in anatomy, physiology, and other respective subjects of study.

While there are several styles of acupuncture, including 5-element acupuncture and Kiiko Matsumoto style (among others), acupuncture certification programs are not intended for any one specific style, but for acupuncture practitioners who desire to improve their professional outlook.

Typically, acupuncture certification is attained by taking a certification examination through the NCCAOM (National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine). Eligibility for candidates who desire to gain acupuncture certification and earn the title of Diplomate (Dipl. Ac.), must have acquired a formal education in acupuncture and must have met all accreditation requirements.

Consequently, if graduates have received their acupuncture degrees, but have not obtained all necessary coursework for acupuncture certification can earn and present supplemental education through an ACAOM-accredited or candidate school. Furthermore, practitioners who have earned their acupuncture certification must acquire a minimum of 60 PDA (Professional Development Activity) points for recertification.

If you are interested in finding your dream job, let education within fast-growing industries like massage therapy, cosmetology, acupuncture, oriental medicine, Reiki, and others get you started! Explore career school programs near you now!


CarolAnn Bailey-Lloyd

Acupuncture During Pregnancy

Acupuncture is the ancient Chinese method of using tiny needles to stimulate specific areas or "meridians" of the body and to rebalance the body's energy, or chi. Because acupuncture is especially effective for chronic conditions, many pregnant women are turning to acupuncture to provide drug-free relief from many of the unpleasant symptoms of pregnancy.

An Australian study showed that women who received acupuncture treatments regularly before their 14th week of pregnancy had less nausea and shorter bouts of morning sickness than women who did not receive the treatment. Acupuncture has also been used to treat the more serious condition hyperemesis gravidarum, which causes serious vomiting that persists throughout pregnancy.

During the second trimester, acupuncture has been used to successfully treat heartburn and hemorrhoids. In the third trimester, acupuncture can provide relief from sciatica, joint pain and carpal tunnel syndrome, which many women develop late in pregnancy. Acupuncture has even been used to relieve pain during labor and delivery.

Pregnant women seeking to use acupuncture to treat conditions developed during pregnancy should be sure to visit a licensed and experienced acupuncturist. For example, although acupuncture can be used to treat edema, or swelling of the ankles, edema can be an indicator of a serious problem. An acupuncturist experienced in treating pregnant women would be more likely to recognize this problem and refer the patient back to her obstetrician.

The most serious risk of using acupuncture during pregnancy is that it may stimulate labor if it is improperly applied. Choosing an experienced practitioner reduces this risk to almost negligible levels. In fact, many women have turned to acupuncture to purposefully stimulate labor when their baby is overdue. Some women have found that labor induced by acupuncture is gentler than labor induced by drugs such as Pitocin.

In addition to benefits during pregnancy, labor and delivery, acupuncture has been used to promote fertility and to treat infertility. In a small German study, women who used acupuncture in conjunction with in vitro fertilization had a 42.5% success rate compared to 26.3% in women who used in vitro fertilization alone. Fertility specialists attribute this to the overall improvement of health that comes from receiving regular acupuncture treatments.

Finally, acupuncture may have some benefits in treating post-partum depression. Although no research has been done to support the efficacy of acupuncture treatments on post-partum depression, anecdotal evidence shows that some women do benefit from its use. Because acupuncture does not cause harmful drug interactions, it can be a useful complimentary therapy.

Jonathon Hardcastle

Acupuncture Questions and Answers

Acupuncture is gaining in popularity, and with it the intrigue into what it is all about. This short and concise article answers some of the more common questions associated with this 'alternative' practice.

Q: Is there anything I need to do before undergoing acupuncture?
A: Large meals should not be consumed within one hour of your acupuncture session since digestion changes your pulse rate. Additionally, food and drink that colors your tongue, e.g. coffee, and alcohol should be avoided prior to treatment.

Q: Does my GP need to know?
A: Only if you are receiving any treatments from your doctor. In some circumstances the fact that you are receiving acupuncture may negate the continuation of some prescriptions/ treatments. Similarly, acupuncturists must be informed of any treatments being provided by your doctor as they may reduce the effects of the acupuncture.

Q: What are the after effects of acupuncture?
A: Typically you will feel calm and relaxed, at ease with yourself and everyone around you. On occasion particularly strong treatment may make you feel drowsy or tired for a few hours. Problematic symptoms that were targeted with the treatment may return in a short burst as your Qi drifts away and resettles.

Q: What are the things I should seek in an acupuncturist?
A: The acupuncture practitioner must be registered through a professional organization and have insurance cover that is appropriate. When speaking to them you should be able to engage well, feel comfortable and know that they have a clear idea of what it is that you want from them. Similarly, the practitioner should be able to confer what they believe the acupuncture will achieve.

Q: How much does acupuncture cost?
A: As such no fixed rates are used. Overheads vary from practice to practice. The best way to get an idea of costs is to phone a few practices nearby, asking how much they charge for their various treatments.

Q: What can the practice of acupuncture achieve for me?
A: This is dependant on whether your problematic symptoms you wish to reduce are specific and current, or rather, that you are looking for preventative treatment. What is generally done is to contact your local acupuncture practitioner and discuss your requirements with them. Specific questions can then be answered by the very people that will be carrying out and monitoring your acupuncture sessions.

Q: What number of acupuncture treatments will I require?
A: The number of treatments you may need varies depending upon the patient. Courses of treatments are common as one-time cures are rare. 4-6 treatments tend to produce noticeable results with regards to improving your condition.

Q: Are acupuncture machines that enable self treatment a good idea?
A: These gadgets and gizmo's are not recommended. Experienced and qualified acupuncturists are who you should turn to. These people are able to diagnose your specific wants objectively and then act appropriately for your particular situation.

Q: Is the practice of acupuncture painful?
A: Some very mild tingling can sometimes result. What is should never be is painful. Many people imagine how they felt when surgical needles were placed in themselves. Acupuncture uses far finer needles with little similarity to injection needles, being solid rather than hollow.

Q: If I'm currently on prescribed medications whilst undergoing sessions of acupuncture should I continue with the prescriptions?
A: Indeed you should, until you have proper discussions with your GP that suggest otherwise. Albeit that many people decide to undergo acupuncture because medical treatments are seemingly failing them, it is very important that you should not cease taking your medication without first consulting with your doctor.

Q: In what way are acupuncture needles used?
A: One-use pre-sterilized disposable acupuncture specific needles are used. Stringent codes of sterilization and hygiene are always adhered to.

Q: How safe is acupuncture?
A: The transmission of diseases or improper use of needles are almost non-existent due to very thorough hygiene and safety practices vetted by the local health authorities and acupuncture bodies alike.

Q: Are there different types of acupuncture?
A: Yes, other forms exist that focus entirely on specific parts of your anatomy, e.g. hand or foot. Electrical stimulation via the needles is also practiced. A form of acupuncture uses no needles at all, instead pressure is applied to various points on the body, usually by the practitioners hands. Consult the internet, libraries and local practitioners for more advice.

Alex Rider

Do People Still Use Acupuncture?

Acupuncture; the most widely known alternative medicine treatment, has been the primary method of treatment in China for over 5000 years. Other countries are slowly catching on and are applying this technique, like China, for the treatment of almost all medical ailments known to mankind. Acupuncture treatment ranges from relieving pain to giving anesthesia to patients. It is probably the best treatment known till this day without any side effects to our bodies.

People following Chinese method of treatment, especially acupuncture, guarantees a long and healthy life. The older and probably one of the first few acupuncture transcripts was found back in 200 BC. The collection of these medical transcripts forms the most comprehensive medical text books used today.

Acupuncture needles were introduced by Pien Chueh in the fourth century. He used stone acupuncture needles, moxibustion and herbs to bring a prince out of coma. The Chinese still celebrate this day every year on April 28th.

Acupuncture is basically a treatment that accelerates the body’s natural healing process and improves biological functioning. There are numerous nerve endings in our body. Acupuncture is the practice of stimulating these points via acupuncture needles and electric current in extreme cases. These nerve endings are also called acupuncture points.

Functionality and success of acupuncture is something not known to many people. In our body, many channels of energies flow in regular patterns. These channels like the river irrigate the muscles and tissues of our bodies. Any pain or disorder in our health influences these channels. Acupuncture regulates them back to their courses through needles. With the use of special herbs applied to the tips of needles, acupuncture stimulates the body when touched at the correct points. Any obstruction in the energy channels is then removed and the process starts again normally.

Acupuncture creates a remarkable biochemical balance in our body and stimulates the natural healing process of our body. This promotes physical and emotional well being.

Acupuncture is often associated with the treatment and relief of pain, however many experienced practitioners are capable of using acupuncture in a much wider area of health curing many other biological disorders. It treats all sorts of digestive, respiratory, urinary, neurological, muscular and reproductive malfunctions.

Acupuncture treatment is given in a number of sessions to the patients. The number of sessions depends upon the severity of the cause. The number of session may range from 1-2 per week for a few months or even over a number of months. One must keep in mind that acupuncture is a natural treatment and thus the effects are slow but long lasting. Patience and relaxation is the key to long term cure in acupuncture.

Eric Cho

What are the Benefits of Acupuncture ?

Acupuncture is one of the oldest, most commonly used medical procedures in the world. Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medical technique. It is also called Oriental medicine. Acupuncture scientific name is paradigm. Each meridian corresponds to one organ, or group of organs, that governs particular bodily functions. Acupuncture is thought to restore health by removing energy imbalances and blockages in the body. Acupuncture is the practice of inserting thin needles into specific body points to improve health and well-being. Acupuncture originated in China more than 2,000 years ago, making it one of the oldest and most commonly used medical procedures in the world. It is widely used in both private and NHS settings. Acupuncture is a family of procedures involving stimulation of anatomical locations on or in the skin by a variety of techniques. Traditional Chinese medicine is not based on knowledge of modern physiology, biochemistry, nutrition, anatomy, or any of the known mechanisms of healing. Acupuncture's record of success has stimulated a number of research projects investigating its mechanisms as well as its efficacy. It's commonly used to treat pain, relieve common ailments and promote general health. There is a growing body of research evidence on the effectiveness of acupuncture, especially to treat nausea (particularly postoperative), dental problems and low back pain. Acupuncture has been shown to induce reproducible patterns of neural activity in a wide variety of brainstem, midbrain and cerebral cortical structures.There is sufficient evidence, however, of acupuncture's value to expand its use into conventional medicine and to encourage further studies of its physiology and clinical value.

Acupuncturists believe it regulates the flow of ‘vital energy’, known as ‘Qi’ (pronounced ‘chee’). The most frequently offered defense of acupuncture by its defenders commits the pragmatic fallacy. The effects of acupuncture are complex. Acupuncture needles are metallic, solid, and hair-thin. People experience acupuncture differently, but most feel no or minimal pain as the needles are inserted. Some people are energized by treatment, while others feel relaxed. Improper needle placement, movement of the patient, or a defect in the needle can cause soreness and pain during treatment. This is why it is important to seek treatment from a qualified acupuncture practitioner. Acupuncture is also thought to decrease pain by increasing the release of chemicals that block pain, called endorphins. Many acu-points are near nerves. When stimulated, these nerves cause a dull ache or feeling of fullness in the muscle. The stimulated muscle sends a message to the central nervous system (the brain and spinal cord), causing the release of endorphins (morphine-like chemicals produced in our own bodies during times of pain or stress). Endorphins, along with other neurotransmitters (body chemicals that modify nerve impulses), block the message of pain from being delivered up to the brain. Some of the biological effects of acupuncture have also been observed when "sham" acupuncture points are stimulated, highlighting the importance of defining appropriate control groups in assessing biological changes purported to be due to acupuncture.

Acupuncture is one of the CAM therapies that are more commonly covered by insurance. Acupuncture points are thought to correspond to physiological and anatomical features such as peripheral nerve junctions, and diagnosis is made in purely conventional terms. There are several different approaches to acupuncture. Among the most common in the United States today Acupuncture points employs penetration of the skin by thin, solid, metallic needles, which are manipulated manually or by electrical stimulation. The most common serious injury reported from the needles of acupuncture has been accidental puncture of the lung. The most common infection reported from acupuncture treatments is viral hepatitis, a potentially serious infection of the liver. Other side effects include bacterial infections locally at the site of needle insertion in the skin and elsewhere in the body. Generally, side effects seem to relate to poor hygiene and training of the acupuncturist. Acupuncture as a therapeutic intervention is widely practiced in the United States. There have been many studies of its potential usefulness. However, many of these studies provide equivocal results because of design, sample size, and other factors. The issue is further complicated by inherent difficulties in the use of appropriate controls, such as placebo and sham acupuncture groups. There are other situations such as addiction, stroke rehabilitation, headache, menstrual cramps, tennis elbow, fibromyalgia, myofascial pain, osteoarthritis, low back pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, and asthma where acupuncture may be useful as an adjunct treatment or an acceptable alternative or be included in a comprehensive management program.

Juliet Cohen

Does Acupuncture Really Work The Way It Should?

Acupuncture therapy for stroke-caused conditions such as paralysis, speech and swallowing problems, and depression is commonly used in the Orient. In China and Japan, an acupuncturist is likely to start therapy as soon as possible after a stroke. However, my recommendation is a delay of 2 weeks before acupuncture for strokes caused by bleeding in the brain, 10 to 20% of strokes (instead of the usual blood vessel block or clot).

The wait is due to studies showing that acupuncture opens blood vessels for better flow and decreases clotting and inflammation. These effects are desired early when arteries are blocked, but after a stroke caused by bleeding has occurred, it is safer to wait until the bleeding blood vessel has clotted and is unlikely to bleed further before providing the acupuncture.

Acupuncture is done on a daily basis in China. Uncertain as to whether daily acupuncture is essential, even in Western countries, some acupuncturists with experience in treating stroke with acupuncture believe treatment 3 times a week is optimal. Several different approaches have been used to treat stroke, demonstrating that acupuncture for this disorder remains a healthcare art: Traditional Chinese Yang meridian point therapy, Chinese scalp acupuncture.

Does acupuncture really work to help stroke victims improve? Many studies involving thousands of patients have been published in China and Japan, and 2 of 3 studies from Scandinavia, demonstrated significant help. These studies indicate that patients get well faster, perform better in self-care, require less nursing and rehabilitation therapy, and use less healthcare dollars.

However, since most studies come from China, they get little credence from the Western medical community because researchers in China do not appear to be published unless their results are highly positive, so publication bias is possible. And, no money has been made available in the United States for studies needed to confirm the claims of experts in China and Japan of indeed helping stroke patients.

Even discomfort is generally minimal. If one compares the possible positive help to be obtained with the risks associated with acupuncture, my contention is that acupuncture is worthy to attempt for stroke therapy. Studies are needed in the United States to prove this to medical skeptics. It will be important for such studies to involve skilled acupuncturists with experience in stroke therapy.

Jerry H. Hall

Acupuncture Schools - Know Your Options Before You Commit

Besides licensing you can also be certified by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine; practitioners with this certification can use the title Diplomate of Acupuncture, professional abbreviation is Dipl.Ac. There is much to learn about the ancient practice of acupuncture. Most, but not all, states require students to complete a three to five year program from an accredited acupuncture school and then pass a state board exam in order to become licensed.

The Accreditation Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (ACAOM) is the national accrediting agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education to accredit Master's-level programs in the acupuncture and Oriental medicine profession; make sure the school you're considering has this accreditation. You can call each school you're considering and ask to speak to a counselor to find out the student-to-teacher ratio so you can get smaller classes. Acupuncture schools that offer courses in traditional Chinese medicine often include other aspects of traditional medicine, like anatomy, body therapy, massage therapy, and sciences.

Try to choose an acupuncture school that offers an extensive library of materials focused on traditional Chinese medicine. You want to find an acupuncture school that offers small classes. It's important to get a complete picture of all the treatments offered by the acupuncture school to acquire the skills needed to be well-rounded and well-versed for your patients.

Acupuncture schools may offer the science and the philosophy of acupuncture too. There are just a few acupuncture schools that teach practitioners the five-element Oriental medicine approach to acupuncture, which is often used in conjunction with traditional Western medical practices. For naturopathy schools that offer acupuncture programs see a list of accredited Natural Medicine

Colleges in North America.

Your economic burden may be lessened with financial aid in the form of federal student loans. Before you commit to any acupuncture school or to any acupuncture training you can purchase "Fundamentals of Chinese Acupuncture" by Andrew Ellis, Nigel Wiseman, and Ken Bosson. 484 pp., illustrated, Harcourt, 1991, paperback; this text book is used in many acupuncture schools and acupuncture programs and will give you an idea if you want to pursue acupuncture as a career. You may not need a license to practice acupuncture in your state; get the facts first on which states require licensing.

Consider contacting your local and health organizations to see if they know of any scholarships available. In order to qualify for federal assistance be sure to enroll in a school that's accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (ACAOM). Take a look at acupuncture schools in your home area first; it will considerably cut down your expenses if you can study near your home.

Note each state and each discipline has its own strict rules about how alternative medicine practitioners can be professionally licensed. Acupuncture benefits are particularly effective at relieving or treating chronic muscle pain, stress, and PMS just to name a few symptoms. Another good textbook to review in advance of your decision is: "The Foundations of Chinese Medicine" a comprehensive text for acupuncturists and herbalists. Maciocia, 528 pp. Illustrated, Harcourt, 1989.

Hopefully these tips will help you learn the newest information about acupuncture schools. Acupuncturists can expect to make about $45,000 per year starting out and can double that amount after a few years experience. And once you're up and running -
licensed or practicing acupuncture as a student in training, never attempt to use acupuncture to treat potentially life-threatening symptoms such as extreme shortness of breath or chest pain; refer these patients to their doctor.

Helen Hecker

How Does Acupuncture Work?

Acupuncture is a complex intervention that may vary for different patients with similar chief complaints. The number and length of treatments and the specific points used may vary among individuals and during the course of treatment. Given this reality, it is perhaps encouraging that there exist a number of studies of sufficient quality to assess the efficacy of acupuncture for certain conditions.

As with other types of interventions, some individuals are poor responders to specific acupuncture protocols. Both animal and human laboratory and clinical experience suggest that the majority of subjects respond to acupuncture, with a minority not responding. Some of the clinical research outcomes, however, suggest that a larger percentage may not respond. The reason for this paradox is unclear and may reflect the current state of the research.

Assessing the usefulness of a medical intervention in practice differs from assessing formal efficacy. In conventional practice, clinicians make decisions based on the characteristics of the patient, clinical experience, potential for harm, and information from colleagues and the medical literature. In addition, when more than one treatment is possible, the clinician may make the choice taking into account the patient's preferences. While it is often thought that there is substantial research evidence to support conventional medical practices, this is frequently not the case. This does not mean that these treatments are ineffective. The data in support of acupuncture are as strong as those for many accepted Western medical therapies.

One of the advantages of acupuncture is that the incidence of adverse effects is substantially lower than that of many drugs or other accepted medical procedures used for the same conditions. As an example, musculoskeletal conditions, such as fibromyalgia, myofascial pain, and tennis elbow, or epicondylitis, are conditions for which acupuncture may be beneficial. These painful conditions are often treated with, among other things, anti-inflammatory medications (aspirin, ibuprofen, etc.) or with steroid injections. Both medical interventions have a potential for deleterious side effects but are still widely used and are considered acceptable treatments. The evidence supporting these therapies is no better than that for acupuncture.

In addition, ample clinical experience, supported by some research data, suggests that acupuncture may be a reasonable option for a number of clinical conditions. Examples are postoperative pain and myofascial and low back pain. Examples of disorders for which the research evidence is less convincing but for which there are some positive clinical trials include addiction, stroke rehabilitation, carpal tunnel syndrome, osteoarthritis, and headache.

Acupuncture treatment for many conditions such as asthma or addiction should be part of a comprehensive management program.

Jerry Hall

Aching For An Acupuncture Career - Find The Best Accredited Acupuncture Schools

Acupuncture has been practiced in China for at least 2,000 years or so and some say it is more possibly like 3,000 years or so. You may be thinking about a career in acupuncture. When just starting out, one needs to learn how and where you can earn a certificate or degree in acupuncture and what it's like to work in the field of acupuncture.

It's important to get a complete picture of all the treatments offered by the acupuncture school to acquire the skills needed to be well-rounded and well-versed for your patients. Smaller classes tend to encourage greater discussion between students and teachers, and can foster improved learning. Acupuncture school education and training requirements can total from between 2500 to 4000 credit hours.

For naturopathy schools that offer acupuncture programs see the: List of Accredited Natural Medicine Colleges in North America. Keep in mind that depending on the school, students may be required to study herbal medicine or may be offered herbal courses as electives. Acupuncture schools that offer courses in traditional Chinese medicine often include other aspects of traditional medicine, like anatomy, body therapy, massage therapy, and sciences.

Choose an acupuncture school that offers consultation services for its graduates; these schools allow graduates to consult with their instructors regarding care of their patients. Choose an acupuncture school that offers an extensive library of materials focused on traditional Chinese medicine. You want to opt for a school whose program emphasizes courses in traditional Chinese medicine; acupuncture is just one part of traditional Chinese medicine.

Acupuncture scholarships may be available; check this out as soon as you make the decision to enroll in a program - don't wait. Talk to the financial aid counselors at the acupuncture school or college you are considering and see if they have any suggestions for scholarships, grants or loans. Before you commit to learning about any alternative medical technique, be aware that many of them have not been scientifically evaluated; do your homework.

Economic burden may be lessened with financial aid in the form of federal student loans. If you have a naturopathic school in your area, give them a call; they will undoubtedly know the licensing requirements. If you visit an acupuncture practitioner to learn more before you commit to acupuncture as a career, make sure to choose a practitioner who is licensed by a recognized national acupuncture organization.

Before you commit to any acupuncture school or to any acupuncture training you can purchase "Fundamentals of Chinese Acupuncture" by Andrew Ellis, Nigel Wiseman, and Ken Bosson. 484pp, illustrated, Harcourt, 1991, paperback; this text book is used in many acupuncture schools and acupuncture programs and will give you an idea if you want to pursue acupuncture as a career. You may not need a license to practice acupuncture in your state; get the facts first on which states require licensing. Consider contacting local organizations and health organizations to see if they know of any scholarships available.

Acupuncturists can expect to make about $45,000 per year starting out and can usually double that amount after a few years experience. Make sure to learn all you can about your state's licensing requirements for acupuncturists before you do anything else. Our advanced medicine has proven the effectiveness of many treatments that have been practiced in other countries for many centuries; as a result, more and more insurance companies are covering alternative treatments like acupuncture.

Helen Hecker

Can Acupuncture Cure Me?

Acupuncture has been used by millions of American patients and performed by thousands of physicians, dentists, acupuncturists, and other practitioners for relief or prevention of pain and for a variety of health conditions. After reviewing the existing body of knowledge, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration recently removed acupuncture needles from the category of "experimental medical devices" and now regulates them just as it does other devices, such as surgical scalpels and hypodermic syringes, under good manufacturing practices and single-use standards of sterility.

Over the years, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) has funded a variety of research projects on acupuncture, including studies on the mechanisms by which acupuncture may produce its effects, as well as clinical trials and other studies. There is also a considerable body of international literature on the risks and benefits of acupuncture, and the World Health Organization lists a variety of medical conditions that may benefit from the use of acupuncture or moxibustion. Such applications include prevention and treatment of nausea and vomiting; treatment of pain and addictions to alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs; treatment of pulmonary problems such as asthma and bronchitis; and rehabilitation from neurological damage such as that caused by stroke.

Efficacy of a treatment assesses the differential effect of a treatment when compared with placebo or another treatment modality using a double-blind controlled trial and a rigidly defined protocol. Papers should describe enrollment procedures, eligibility criteria, description of the clinical characteristics of the subjects, methods for diagnosis, and a description of the protocol (i.e., randomization method, specific definition of treatment, and control conditions, including length of treatment and number of acupuncture sessions). Optimal trials should also use standardized outcomes and appropriate statistical analyses. This assessment of efficacy focuses on high-quality trials comparing acupuncture with sham acupuncture or placebo.

There is clear evidence that needle acupuncture is efficacious for adult postoperative and chemotherapy nausea and vomiting and probably for the nausea of pregnancy.

Much of the research is on various pain problems. There is evidence of efficacy for postoperative dental pain. There are reasonable studies (although sometimes only single studies) showing relief of pain with acupuncture on diverse pain conditions such as menstrual cramps, tennis elbow, and fibromyalgia. This suggests that acupuncture may have a more general effect on pain. However, there are also studies that do not find efficacy for acupuncture in pain.

There is evidence that acupuncture does not demonstrate efficacy for cessation of smoking and may not be efficacious for some other conditions.

Although many other conditions have received some attention in the literature and, in fact, the research suggests some exciting potential areas for the use of acupuncture, the quality or quantity of the research evidence is not sufficient to provide firm evidence of efficacy at this time.

Jerry Hall

Acupuncture Schools - Selecting The Right Acupuncture School For You

Acupuncture as a career can be a practice you can enjoy for a lifetime. You might be thinking about a career in acupuncture. Acupuncture is particularly effective at relieving or treating chronic muscle pain, stress, and PMS just to name a few symptoms. In most states in the United States as well as in many other countries, training and certification are required in order to practice acupuncture.

Smaller classes tend to encourage greater discussion between students and teachers, and can foster improved learning. See if your state is on the national list of about 50 acupuncture schools with accredited programs. You want to opt for an acupuncture school whose program emphasizes courses in traditional Chinese medicine. Acupuncture is just one part of the traditional Chinese medicine.

Acupuncture school education and training requirements can total from 2500 to 4000 credit hours. You may want to find an acupuncture school that offers small classes. First of all you want to find out what the school and program options are in your area.

Acupuncture schools may offer the science and the philosophy of acupuncture also. For naturopathy schools that do offer acupuncture programs see the List of Accredited Natural Medicine Colleges in North America. And check with your selected school. It's important that you have a wide selection of study resources available to you so you can have the literature that is essential for a broad learning experience.

Talk to the financial aid counselors at the acupuncture school or college you're considering and ask if they have any suggestions for scholarships, grants or loans. Internships in acupuncture take place in acupuncture clinics or clinical settings, usually in the third year.

In order to qualify for federal assistance, be sure to enroll in a school that is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine

(ACAOM). One good textbook to take a look at in advance of your decision is: "The Foundations of Chinese Medicine" a comprehensive text for acupuncturists and herbalists by Maciocia, 528pp. 96 Illustrations, published by Harcourt in 1989. Take a look at acupuncture schools in your home town area first; it will considerably cut down your expenses if you can study near your home.

Consider contacting your local organizations and health organizations to see if they know of any that might be available. The economic burden may be lessened with financial aid in the form of federal student loans.

Acupuncture is also used for arthritis

, headaches, migraine headaches, quitting smoking, weight loss, fertility, fibromyalgia, depression, insomnia, face lifts as in facial acupuncture, back pain, high blood pressure, pregnancy, cosmetic purposes, anxiety, Crohn's disease, asthma, and for dogs and other animals as in veterinary acupuncture.

As an acupuncturist you could choose to have a cosmetic acupuncture or facial acupuncture practice or a veterinary acupuncture clinic. Once you're licensed or practicing acupuncture as a student in training, never attempt to use acupuncture to treat potentially life-threatening symptoms such as extreme shortness of breath or chest pain. You need to refer these patients to their doctor. Keep your allopathic doctor or your naturopathic doctor informed about any alternative medical technique or procedure you undertake.

Helen Hecker

Best Acupuncture School Tips To Save You Time And Money

If you're just starting out you're probably learning all you can about the field of acupuncture for a career and all about acupuncture schools and how you're going to pay for it. You'll need to learn how and where you can earn a certificate or degree in acupuncture and what it's like to work in the field of acupuncture all at a reasonable or low cost. Besides licensing you can also be certified by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine

. Practitioners who have this certification can use the title Diplomate of Acupuncture. The professional abbreviation is Dipl.Ac.

Check to see if your state is on the national list of about 50 acupuncture schools with accredited programs if you don't know already. California have many acupuncture schools to choose from, while Wisconsin has only one school; some states have no schools. It's important to get a good picture of all the treatments that are offered by the acupuncture school so that you acquire the skills needed to be well-rounded and well-versed for your patients.

Depending on the school, students may be required to study herbal medicine or may be offered herbal courses as electives. Acupuncture school education and training requirements can total from between 2500 to 4000 credit hours. It's best to choose an acupuncture school that offers an extensive library focused on traditional Chinese medicine.

Once you've picked the school it's important that you have a wide selection of study resources available so you can have all the literature that is essential for a broad learning experience. Acupuncture schools sometimes offer the science and philosophy of acupuncture too. And you want to find an acupuncture school that offers smaller classes.

Acupuncture is particularly effective at relieving or treating chronic muscle pain, stress, and PMS just to name a few symptoms. It's also used for arthritis, headaches, migraine headaches, quitting smoking, weight loss, fertility, fibromyalgia, depression, insomnia, face lifts as in facial acupuncture, back pain, high blood pressure, pregnancy, cosmetic purposes, anxiety, Crohn's disease and asthma. There is also a veterinary acupuncture branch for dogs and other animals.

If you need financial aid try contacting local philanthropic organizations and health organizations to see if they know of any scholarships available. Sometimes these organizations actually have scholarship money leftover that is unused and will accept an application for it. Talk to the financial aid officers at the school and see what suggestions they have for grants, scholarships and federal aid.

There is federal money available for education. Also there is money set aside for online degree programs. Check and see if your school has any of its classes available online and if so apply for these funds. There are education loans and student loans available if you are unable to get full or partial scholarships or grants.

Each state and each discipline has its own strict rules about how alternative medicine practitioners are to be professionally licensed. Take a look at the acupuncture schools in your state first. Naturally it will considerably cut down on your expenses if you can attend school closer to home. If you visit an acupuncture practitioner to learn more before you commit to acupuncture as a career, make sure to choose one who is licensed by a nationally recognized acupuncture organization.

Also, in order to qualify for federal aid make sure to enroll in a school that's accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (ACAOM). The internships in acupuncture take place in acupuncture clinics or clinical settings, usually in the third year of school. Also if you have an acupuncture school or naturopathic school in your area, email or give them a call; they'll know the licensing requirements. Or check with your state's professional licensing division to see if licensure is required in the state you plan to practice in.

Helen Hecker