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Latin acus needle, punctura means to pierce, to pierce. The word acupuncture in Western languages is used as zhen jiu (zhen: acupuncture, jiu: moxibation) in Chinese. Some points are heated by burning the plant called Moksa. This is called moxibation. In ancient times, sharp-edged stones were used for acupuncture treatment. Over time, these stones were replaced by materials made of bone or bamboo. Later, needles made of different metals were used. Today, disposable needles made of gold, silver and steel are used. Acupuncture is applied as body acupuncture and microsystems. In body acupuncture, 12 double, 2 single, 14 main meridians and extra meridians on the trunk, head, neck, arms and legs are used. Microsystems are ear (auriculotherapy), hands – feet (sujok acupuncture) and head (scalp acupuncture) regions. Meridians travel our entire body from head to toe. The life energy called Chi (qi) is also in flux in these meridians. According to traditional Chinese medicine, diseases occur when the circulation of Chi in the body is blocked for any reason. The human body has the ability to heal itself just as it heals a broken bone. By inserting needles into acupuncture points, a warning is sent to the brain and the human body’s ability to heal itself and its mechanisms are activated. Thus, the flow of blocked energy and the substances necessary for treatment are secreted by the body. When the energy flow is in balance, the disease is healed. |
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History of Acupuncture Acupuncture 5000 years It is a treatment method with a history. The first known book on acupuncture was written by the Yellow Emperor Huang Di Nei Jing two centuries ago. In this book, acupuncture points are defined and how many diseases are treated is written. Missionaries to China in the 17th century provided the transition of acupuncture to the west. While acupuncture started to be practiced in the West, it continued to be practiced among the people, although it was banned in China in the first quarter of the 19th century, especially in the palace. In the middle of the 20th century, it began to be widely used again. Health personnel known as barefoot doctors, who know acupuncture, have played an important role in primary health care by spreading all over the country. It is also said that acupuncture was first applied by the Uyghur Turks. Artifacts found in some excavations showing acupuncture points support this view. |
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Effects of acupuncture : *Analgesic effect: It is the most known and used effect of acupuncture. It is used to relieve various pains. *Immune system regulatory effect: Acupuncture increases the body’s resistance. *Homeostatic effect: Homeostasis is the keeping and protection of the internal environment of the organism. Acupuncture provides homeostasis through the autonomic nervous system. *Sedative effect: Changes in brain waves were detected in EEGs taken during acupuncture treatment. This effect of acupuncture is used in the treatment of sleep disorders. After the acupuncture session, patients feel quite rested and relaxed. *Psychological effect: Dopamine and serotonin levels can be increased with acupuncture. *Motor healing effect: Some paralysis can be healed. *Regenerative effect: Acupuncture increases regional blood flow. Thus, it provides cell regeneration. |
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How is Acupuncture Applied? Acupuncture is applied by placing special needles on certain points. There is no medicine in the needles. The frequency of acupuncture sessions varies according to the disease. It can be done every day, 2-3 times a week, once a week or once a month. In some cases, it may be necessary to apply several sessions of treatment at certain periods each year The duration of the acupuncture session is usually between 20-30 minutes after the last needle prick. Are There Any Side Effects of Acupuncture? Acupuncture is a very safe method if applied by a physician with adequate training. Sometimes there may be bruising at the injection site. Acupuncture applications require the use of sterile and disposable needles. This is essential to prevent the transmission of infectious diseases. Does Acupuncture Needle Hurt? The thought of having a needle stuck in their body makes many people uneasy. Acupuncture needles are very thin needles made of gold, silver or steel. There is no pain when the needle is inserted, or a slight pain may be felt in the form of a fly bite. Although there are needles inserted into his body, some patients are seen sleeping during the session. Those with needle phobia and children can be treated with laser acupuncture. What are the Conditions to Be Considered Before and After Acupuncture Session? Before the acupuncture session, heavy meals should not be eaten or one should not be very hungry. Alcohol should not be taken 4 hours before and 2 hours after (better if you stay away from the session day). Excessive activity should not be done. It is useful to rest on the day of the session. |
