Acupuncture, used for centuries, is one of the most popular forms of alternative and complementary medicines. However, despite its long history, acupuncture is often met with skepticism in the Western world.
Many myths surround the ancient practice and have circulated for years. It can be challenging to separate fact from fiction. This article will dispel three of the most common myths about acupuncture.
1. Acupuncture is painful.
While acupuncture does involve the insertion of needles, the needles are very thin and usually cause little to no pain. I know this sounds crazy, but many people find acupuncture relaxing and report feeling a sense of well-being after treatment.
Want to learn more? Listen to Episode #025, The Wellness Inspired Podcast
2. Acupuncture is only used for treating pain.
Indeed, acupuncture is excellent for treating pain. However, it can treat many other conditions, such as stress, anxiety, fatigue, insomnia, infertility, menopause, and digestive issues, to name a few. Also, women are 65% more likely to become pregnant when they integrate acupuncture into their IVF treatments.
3. Acupuncture is not supported by science.
A growing body of scientific evidence supports acupuncture’s efficacy for various conditions. For example, studies show that acupuncture treatment is more advantageous than drugs in treating generalized anxiety disorders (GAD), according to Health CMi.
There is also current research on acupuncture effectively treating insomnia, chronic fatigue syndrome, gastritis, depression, hypertension, migraines, fibromyalgia, asthma, arthritis, and allergic rhinitis.
You can read a complete list of common conditions acupuncture treats with studies and articles at the National Certification Commission of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine, NCCAOM.
There you have it! If you’ve been considering acupuncture but have been holding off because of some common misconceptions, I hope this article has set your mind at ease.
Contact a licensed practitioner today if you’re interested in exploring whether acupuncture could help you achieve relief from whatever condition or symptoms are troubling you.
Stay tuned for more information on this ancient healing modality next month and throughout the year!
“The only way to optimal health is to take care of ourselves everyday emotionally, physically and mentally.”
Sheri Davidson, licensed acupuncturist and integrative health coach, specializes in preventative medicine. She loves sharing her passion for wellness living and Eastern medicine through her blog, The Wellness Inspired Podcast, and practice, Element 5, Acupuncture + Wellness in Rice Village District of Houston, TX.
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Blog: Element 5, Acupuncture + Wellness
Sheri Davidson, L.Ac + Wellness Coach