Acupuncture is an alternative healing practice that originated in China. It has been used for centuries to heal a variety of health conditions.

Acupuncture is performed by inserting needles into pressure points around the body. These pressure points are connected to other areas of the body and when they are stimulated they effect those other areas of the body in a positive way. Acupuncture also is based upon the belief of regulating and balancing the energy in the body.

The practice of acupuncture is even backed through scientific studies that have shown it to be effective for a range of conditions, including back pain, neck pain, nausea and headaches.

Acupuncture is best performed by a trained professional as adverse effects could result if done improperly. The risks of acupuncture include infection, bleeding, nerve injury and damage to internal organs if needle is inserted too deeply.

An acupuncture session usually begins with a diagnostic procedure. The diagnostic methods used include inspection, auscultation and olfaction, inquiring and palpation.

Inspection is focused on the face and facial features. The practioner will look at the tongue and the general health of the tongue to get an idea about the patient’s problems.

Auscultation and olfaction involve listening to sounds of the body and inspecting the body smell of the patient.

Inquiring and palpation is the diagnostic method most closely related to modern medical practices. It involves checking for symptoms like fever and pain. It also involves feeling the body for anything out of the ordinary.

Acupuncture is done using stainless steel needles. The needles are wrapped at one end to make a handle for the practioner. The size of the needle and the depth it is inserted really depends on the nature of the acupuncture and the needs of the patient.

Acupuncture has been used all over the world as a recognized treatment method. It is one of the alternative medicine practices that is most recognized and respected by traditional medicine.

Many people have found relief from acupuncture and have been able to avoid using medications or having invasive surgeries. Like many alternative medicines, though, acupuncture is not going to be able to cure everything. It should be used carefully and the advice of the acupuncture practioner should always be followed.

In many cases you can consult with your physician about acupuncture. Because it is so highly recognized by traditional medicine, your doctor may even be able to suggest a good practioner for you to use.

Author's Bio: 

Kimarie Hazelbaker, PhD, is an award-winning speaker, teacher, medical intuitive and hypnotherapist. Her goal is to help people discover and explore who they truly are, beyond their physical existence. Visit http://www.AncientSecretsRevealed.com for metaphysical and spiritual information for contemporary times.