Acupuncture is a treatment in which tiny steel needles are inserted into your skin to stimulate points on your underlying tissues and organs. Areas to be treated by acupuncture include your back, neck, head, and face. The purpose of acupuncture is to treat a health condition or symptom, such as pain. Its origin is traced to a kind of traditional Chinese medicine.

Many seek acupuncture treatment for relieving pain in all parts of their bodies, including migraine headaches, back pain, and arthritis. Other studies show that acupuncture can be an effective treatment modality for many kinds of disorders relating to problems with the immune system, infertility issues, and the alterations associated with menopause.

An acupuncturist is a professional in the healthcare field who uses acupuncture, one of the many forms of traditional Chinese medicine. Acupuncture uses fine needles inserted at specific points in the body to balance the energy flow or “qi,” which is pronounced stimulating natural healing.

Insights: How does acupuncture work to stimulate healing in the body? Check out our article on the Acupuncture Diploma Program to learn how acupuncture points stimulate the central nervous system, releasing chemicals that activate the body’s natural healing processes.

Here’s a bit more about what acupuncturists do:

1. Training and Certification: Acupuncturists usually undergo an intensive study program in acupuncture and traditional Chinese medicine. Higher education encompasses several years of study and clinical practice in most countries. Depending on the country or state, they must also obtain licensure or certification.
2. Diagnosis: Acupuncturists use traditional diagnostic methods, such as examining the pulse and tongue, and modern diagnostic techniques to understand a patient’s condition. They consider physical, emotional, and environmental factors in their assessment.
3. Treatment: The general acupuncture treatment involves the insertion of beautiful needles into the specific acupuncture points in the body, which are associated with different organs and systems. The purpose is to correct any imbalance and stimulate the body’s natural healing processes.
4. Conditions Treated: Acupuncture addresses various situations, from chronic pain (like back pain or arthritis) to stress and digestive issues. Some people also use it as a complementary treatment for conditions like insomnia or headaches.
5. Complementary Approach: Many people use acupuncture alongside conventional medical treatments, finding it helpful for managing symptoms or improving overall well-being. It’s often integrated into holistic or integrative health care plans.
6. Safety: Acupuncture is generally harmless when done by a trained professional.