Acupuncture: techniques and conditions where it can be applied

It originated in China and, according to archaeological data, dates back around 5,000 years. In the Neolithic period, stone needles were already being used for medical purposes.

In the 1st century BC, the first comprehensive book on acupuncture was written. It's known as the "Huang Di Neijing" and is the oldest existing book on universal medicine. Referred to as "the bible of acupuncture," this book still serves as a cornerstone for any professional acupuncturist because it continues to be an endless source of knowledge.

In Europe, acupuncture began to be known in the 13th century through reports sent by Jesuits from the French scientific mission in Beijing, which were published in France between 1671 and 1682. From that moment, it began to spread rapidly throughout Europe and is still in use today.

The Western mind tends to think that acupuncture is only a technique that uses needles; however, the original ideogram is composed of two Chinese characters: one for metal - acupuncture, and one for fire - moxibustion.

Fine sterilized stainless-steel needles are used, which are inserted into various points on the body, known as acupuncture points. But needles are not the only protagonists. By using cones made from dried mugwort or moxa, heat is generated, resulting in the moxibustion process. The combination of both can restore the flow of energy in the meridians and organs.

Translated into modern medicine terms, acupuncture, through peripheral stimulation, produces a response in the central nervous, immune, and endocrine systems. This is how it alleviates pain and restores the health and well-being of the patient.

Conditions That Can Be Treated with Acupuncture

At Juaneda Clinics, we have an Acupuncture Unit with experts who can treat specific conditions with this technique:

-  Chronic lower back pain

-  Migraines and headaches

-  Knee osteoarthritis

-  Carpal tunnel syndrome

-  Menstrual cramps

-  Fibromyalgia

-  Neck pain, such as muscle contractions

Furthermore, acupuncture has proven to be very effective in other cases such as:

1.  Anxiety and stress treatments: In most cases, patients report that calmness returns, sometimes with just one acupuncture session.

2.  Boosting the immune system: By working with energies, it helps make defenses against pathogenic microorganisms more effective.

3.  Minimizing allergic reactions, always in combination with or as a support to the prescribed medical treatment.

4.  Reducing the desire to smoke: As it stimulates the nervous system and releases endorphins that nurture feelings of well-being and pleasure, it makes it more difficult for smokers to need a cigarette.

5.  Helping reduce snoring, always as a complement to the treatment prescribed by experts.

What Happens During an Acupuncture Session

After evaluating the patient and their needs, the insertion of needles into the chosen points takes place while the person rests, usually lying down.

The insertion of the needles is quick and painless, and the sensation it provides is a slight electric shock, tingling, or numbness. Sometimes, it may also cause a bit of itching, tingling, or even heaviness, cold, or warmth.

The needles remain in the points for 20 to 30 minutes. The specialist can manipulate them by hand or use an electrical stimulator.

Depending on the patient's needs, the process will either be repeated the same way, or some points will be modified to achieve optimal results.

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