Acupuncture Treatment for Allergies

Acupuncture is one of several popular alternative therapies tracing its roots to Chinese traditional
holistic medicine of more than 5,000 years ago. Although the treatment is regarded as one of the most
common and oldest worldwide, acupuncture only started to become recognized in the US after New
York Times journalist James Reston wrote a feature on how his post-surgery pain was eased by doctors
in China in 1971 using the procedure.

The Basis Of Acupuncture
The treatment assumes something called Qi (pronounced key) - energy in living beings that passes
through twelve meridians or invisible energy lines within the body. Each line links to a specific organ
system; the belief is that any imbalance in qi flow leads to a disease. The key component of acupuncture
treatment is the insertion of needles into key points on the meridian lines to renew balance. These
extremely thin, metallic needles are aimed at specific anatomical points and controlled manually or by
electrical stimulation. An individual usually feels relaxed and energized after acupuncture.

Modern Treatment
The US Food and Drug Administration reclassified acupuncture needles as medical devices in 1997, from
the earlier classification as experimental. The Administration notes that over $500m is spent by people
throughout the world every year for the acupuncture treatment, for which a good number secure
insurance coverage. The agency's main restriction for needles is that they be non-toxic, sterilized and
that they be used only once.

- Acupuncture is endorsed by the National Institute of Health
- Is practiced by dentists, doctors and other health practitioners

Increasing Acceptance
Increasing acceptance of acupuncture was highlighted by the National Health Interview Survey in 2002,
which indicated that the number of American adults turning to the treatment surged from 2.1 million in
2001 to about 8.2 million the following year. The interest in acupuncture also received a boost from
individuals that express dissatisfaction of conventional medicine for some health problems.

How Does Acupuncture Work?
Acupuncture reportedly induces the release of endorphins in the body, relieving an individual from pain.
Other effects attributed to the therapy include influence over neurotransmitters, or substances
transporting nerve impulses; promotion of circulation; and effects over the body's electrical currents and
autonomic nervous system. Many common ailments and undesirable conditions are addressed by
acupuncture treatment.

Commonly Treated Conditions
- Sinusitis
- Allergies
- The common cold
- Smoking and other addictions
- Migraines
- Infertility
- Menstrual cramps
- Obesity
- Asthma
- Arthritis
- Dermatology issues

Treatment Procedure
On the first meeting, acupuncturists usually ask new clients to complete a personal health record prior to
an interview. A session with the therapist then has the client answer questions that cover main health
issues, diet, emotional and psychological profile, and overall lifestyle. The therapist should also be
informed by the individual of any current medication and treatment being taken. During this interview,
one can also expect the practitioner to evaluate pulse points and establish how healthy the individual's
twelve meridians are. A diagnosis is then given, followed by the insertion of 6 to 12 needles as treatment
is commenced. Patients considering acupuncture must realize that the exact placement on target points
along the meridians is of high importance, the number of needles used is a secondary factor.

The initial insertion may make the patient feel pricked or stung. However, the treatment should be
relatively painless and comfortable for the duration that could extend to an hour or more. An individual
should immediately tell the acupuncturist to discontinue if he feels any numbness, discomfort or pain.
Variations of the treatment may involve use of herbal medicine - capsules, tablets or tea made from
Chinese herbs to complement the therapy. Some practitioners also integrate cupping - a suction effect
created with the use of glass cups on the skin, in part to promote blood circulation and continuous qi
flow.

Needleless Acupuncture
A new and modern form of acupuncture, (Needleless Acupuncture) is emerging and gaining popularity.
For those that cannot tolerate needles, this new form of acupuncture is a pleasant alternative. Based on
Pulsed Magnetics, needleless acupuncture functions in exactly the same way as traditional acupuncture
by targeting key points along the 12 meridian channels of the body. Pulsating magnetic fields induce an
electrical current flow - Qi - that stimulate the various organs of the body.

Rising Popularity
A recent recall of pain medications has raised apprehension over the ability of the Food and Drug
Administration to ensure safety for consumers. This concern, combined with statements from the NIH and
other government and health organizations that side effects from acupuncture are significantly lower
than other forms of treatment, has made more individuals turn to the treatment, particularly for pain
relief. Several studies have also shown how acupuncture has helped patients with osteoarthritis,
post-chemotherapy nausea and even depression. Despite all the apparent positive feedback, those
considering acupuncture should still consult regular doctors and health-care professionals for advice on
their conditions first. If they decide to pursue the treatment, they must make sure that the acupuncturist
or practitioner they see is highly-qualified and certified by organizations such as the American Academy
of Medical Acupuncturists.