It’s time to puncture through those acupuncture myths!

There are a lot of misconceptions about acupuncture but this age-old practice is becoming a popular option for Western physicians who are seeking new treatment options for their patients. As Dr. Tara McElroy explains to Web MD.

“I needed something more for my patients,” explained the OB/GYN who recommends acupuncture for problems that often resist Western Medicine such as female sexual dysfunction and compulsive overeating.

The trend of using acupuncture as a new Western treatment is on the rise across the country. According to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, in 2007, 3.1 million people used acupuncture to relieve discomfort caused by fibromyalgia, chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting, low back pain, and other ailments.That was 1 million more than in 2002.

Despite the fact that acupuncture has been present in providing relief for people around the world for more than 3,500 years, there are still a lot of acupuncture myths that exist now that it’s going mainstream.

So let’s get to the point (pun intended) and address a few of the Top Acupuncture Myths:

Acupuncture Myth 1: Acupuncture hurts.

Fact: Yes, we are talking needles. But no, they really do not hurt. You may feeling a slight sensation of an initial prick – sometimes described as a mosquito bite – or you may not feel anything at all. The needles used in acupuncture are very slender and solid – similar in size to a cat whisker! After the needles are inserted what you will feel is your body’s circulation reacting to the needle. It may feel like a gentle pulsing or an electrical sensation in your body as your healing begins.

Acupuncture Myth 2: Acupuncture is folk medicine and doesn’t actually work.

Fact: As mentioned above, acupuncture has gone mainstream in Western medicine. Even the United States Military uses it! Both the National Institute of Health (NIH) and the Wold Health Organization (WHO) recognize acupuncture as a treatment for a wide range of conditions. With it’s growing popularity comes more scientific research of it’s effectiveness.

Acupuncture Myth 3: Acupuncture is only useful in treating pain.

Fact: Yes! Acupuncture relieves joint pain, including back pain, headache, knee pain, stomach pain and menstrual cramps. It is also used to treat much more – such as morning sickness, allergies, depression, and infertility to name a few. Additionally, acupuncture is used for preventative care and wellness with its consistent benefit of maintaining a strong immune system and homeostasis.

Acupuncture Myth 4: Acupuncture is expensive and hard to pay for.

Fact: With awareness of its benefits growing, more insurance companies now offer plans that include acupuncture and related services. You may also be able to use your Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or funds from your Health Savings Account (HSA). Make sure to check the language in your plan for coverage.

At the end of the day, we believe that acupuncture should be an accessible and affordable option for anyone seeking alternative or complimentary treatment in health and preventative care. At Aligned Modern Health, we offer 5 convenient locations in Chicagoland where we work with you to ensure your wellness goals are achievable and long lasting! Please visit us to learn more about our range of wellness services in Chiropractic Care, Functional Nutrition, Acupuncture, Massage Therapy, and Complimentary Fitness Instruction.

And learn more about our amazing team of Acupuncturists, here!

Top Acupuncture Myths

 

   
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