Medically Reviewed by Jacque Parker, RN
Acupuncture is a traditional healing method involving the insertion of needles into certain acupoints in the body. When the five elements and three forces are in harmony, you shall enjoy better physical and mental health. Practiced for a few thousand years, acupuncture has spread all over the world. Itandrsquo;s used in addiction therapy, chemotherapy, ear studies, veterinary science, and stress management. If you are suffering from painful joints, tennis elbows, insomnia, headaches or breathing difficulties, consider the benefits of acupuncture.
Strengthens Your Immune System
The immune system helps fight against bacteria, viruses, and other agents that cause health problems. If itandrsquo;s not functioning properly, you will feel fatigued more easily and become more susceptible to diseases like asthma, immune deficiency syndrome, cancer, and even AIDS. Acupuncture is effective in boosting the immune system; it helps to reduce the possibility of contracting diseases and improves your overall health.
Repairs Muscles
Acupuncture is widely used for the treatment of sports injuries. The Pacific College of Oriental Medicine reports how acupuncture is effective in the treatment of musculoskeletal pains, sprains, strains and other injuries. Acupuncture helps relax your muscles to reduce tension, swelling, and speeds up the recovery process. Athletes recovering from injuries have discovered the wonders of acupuncture in pain alleviation and shorter healing times.
Reduces Headaches and Migraines
The Migraine Research Institute estimates some 37 million people in the United States suffer from migraines, and the World Health Organization reports that headaches afflict up to 75 percent of adults once a year. In a study of 70 patients suffering from chronic headaches conducted by the University of North Carolina, acupuncture was helpful in improving their situation. The pain is less intense, and the frequency of headaches is reduced. For people who are suffering from migraines, acupuncture can be the solution to a better life.
Treats Respiratory Problems
Respiratory problems afflict millions of people in the United States. Seasonal allergies, asthma, sleep apnea, and lung cancer cause breathing difficulties, resulting in lower quality of life. Acupuncture is increasingly being used to treat respiratory problems. In 2012, researchers from two universities in Kyoto conducted a study where a group of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease were treated with acupuncture. These patients reported greater ability to exercise and higher quality of life in comparison to the group treated with sham acupuncture.
Improves Sleep
Having trouble sleeping? The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke estimates some 60 million Americans suffer from some form sleep disorder. Sleeping problems can cause low energy levels, poor memory, fatigue, daytime sleepiness and poor focus. Traditionally, acupuncture has been used to treat sleeping disorders. It has a positive effect on neurotransmitters, which are linked to relaxation and sleep. Besides reducing insomnia, it can also improve your sleep quality, even if you are not having trouble sleeping.
Enhances Sexuality
Are you suffering from infertility, premature ejaculation, low sperm count, menopause, vaginal dryness or diminished libido? Once people reach a certain age, they are likely to encounter such sexual problems. The good news is that acupuncture may be effective in treating these sexuality problems. According to traditional Chinese medicine practitioners, these problems come about because of imbalance of energies and acupuncture may be effective in increasing sexuality in both sexes.
Acupuncture is also used for treatment of depression, digestive problems, back pains, knee pains, and high blood pressure. The effectiveness of acupuncture depends on the knowledge, skills, and experience of the acupuncturist. If you want the best results, it is essential that you look for a good acupuncturist with an impressive track record.
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