Acupuncture/Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)Acupuncture has been part of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) for thousands of years. It involves inserting fine needles into specific points on the skin or applying various other techniques to the acupuncture points to bring about healing.
The foundation of Chinese acupuncture is the belief in an energy force called Qi (pronounced ‘chee’). This energy, or life force, circulates around the body through invisible channels called meridians. If the flow of Qi in the meridians is disrupted, then disease may follow. By inserting fine needles into particular acupuncture points, the disruption can be corrected and the flow of Qi restored.
Whether or not you believe in the philosophy of Qi makes no difference to the effects of acupuncture. Scientific trials around the world have found that when acupuncture is performed by a skilled practitioner, it is a safe and useful treatment for many different disorders.
The ancient Chinese proposed that a balance of two opposing yet complementary forces of energy, called Yin and Yang, sustain every living thing. Half the body’s organs and meridians are defined as Tin in relation to the other half, which are defined as Yang. When Yin and Yang are out of balance in the body, disease may occur.
Research has found that acupuncture may be effective in treating a range of disorders in areas including:
