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Will Acupuncture Help Pregnancy?

The art of acupuncture is a part of Chinese traditional medicine and it has been round for the past thousand years or more. You will find that it was just recently accepted in the western world, especially the United States. However, the needles will not impregnate you, but it will allow you to let go of all your negativity and your body will begin to open it up. You will find that acupuncture will help both male and females with infertility problems. In fact, many people are turning to acupuncture as a way to help them conceive.

Most of the time, you will find that it’s older women who wish to have a child that tries this. This can be quite successful, especially when used in conjunction with more typical child-bearing-friendly activities such as eating a healthy diet. If you have fallopian tubes blockage or just a hormone imbalance, you will find that acupuncture could be prescribed to you. Along with acupuncture, women can use other TCM methods in order to battle infertility. Men can also benefit from acupuncture. Acupuncture with male infertility will be treated for low sperm count and it is very popular. Acupuncture, in this case, is used along with herbs to treat the energy of the kidneys.

When it comes to acupuncture you will find that your whole body is affected by a little bit of negativity, and that is why infertility will affect the way your whole body reacts. Rather than treating the symptoms of a disease in the body, acupuncture seeks to find the root of the problem and treat that. Acupuncture can also be used to create a healthier body in general—it may not cure you of your infertility problems, but by becoming healthier in general (less stressed, for example), traditional treatments for infertility have a better chance of working. Acupuncture will help even if you are thinking about getting artificially inseminated or using other methods of conceiving because your entire body is in a good place.

After conception, certain types of acupuncture can still be done, and can help relieve back pain, curb cravings, and create a better environment for your fetus. After you have the baby your energy is thrown off, and you will want to go to an acupuncturist so that you can get quickly over postpartum depression and other negative feelings.

Acupuncture happens to be a tool that couples use through out the entire pregnancy (before and after). This is not for everyone, but it is a method that has been studied very carefully and it does have a high success rate. You will want to make sure that you research acupuncture and ask your doctor for any advice about the treatment. You may find that acupuncture could allow you to conceive quickly and you will be able to enjoy having a child.

The Energy of Acupuncture

When it comes to acupuncture, you will find that there are basic concepts that you have to understand in order to learn the entire process known as “qi”. Qi happens to the energy of the body. Anything negative that you body may go through, like disease or illness, is because your Qi is disrupted. When it comes to the stimulation that you will get from Acupuncture, you will find that there are needles that are placed in specific points of the body so that the Qi flow can be affected. An acupuncturist is someone who uses the use of the needles to heal or unblock your qi flow. The concepts of the qi is difficult for most beginners, but it can be broken into easily understand concepts that you can learn one at a time.

First, it is important to note there are five main types of qi energy: Qi, Jing, Xue, Jin Ye, and Shen. Qi can be roughly translated to “matter-energy.” It causes the movements in the universe, but it is a vital part of your own good health. Some equate the Qi to the soul. Jing can be most closely translated to “essence” in the English language, but there are no exact words in Western terms that mean Jing. When it come to Jing, it is something that is inherited like DNA and then we are able to create out own by eating certain foods and through the air that we breath. Jing, then can be somewhat called “health,” since we genetically receive some health predisposition, but also effect our own health and the health of our children with our lifestyle choices.

Literally meaning blood, Xue is the liquid that flows in the blood and through the Qi or energy of the body. The health of the two is dependent on one another. Jin Ye is also a tangible idea—bodily fluids. These include saliva, milk, tears, genital secretions, sweat, stomach fluids, and other liquids of the body. Finally, Shen is simply just the spirit of the body. Traditionally, your spirit is located in your heart.

Acupuncture is a way that you can treat the energies and to help create a healthy body. The energies are important since that help us develop body heat, defend illness, grow and develop, control the body’s blood and organs, transform, and break down the body’s metabolism. If you get acupuncture done on a regular basis, then you will be able to turn all of your negativity in your Qi to be released.

Nutrition and Acupuncture

If you have recently started to see an acupuncturist, you will find that there are many people who are joining you in the practice. Yu will find that you will want to start a new diet to help you get the most out of your appointments. You will find that if you begin to eat healthy, you body will be able to help the acupuncture to have a good effect. You will begin to clear up some of your health problems. Look acupuncture as a way that you can have a totally new life and a healthier one to boot. You will find that when you change your diet, you’ll feel better and you’ll be able to live longer and happier.

Every person, before beginning a new diet program, should speak with a medical doctor about the effects this will have on your body. Ask your acupuncturist to help you out with your diet. You will find that there are able to suggest what foods will benefit you the most. Be sure to check with a professional before making any major changes so that you can be sure these are the changes your body needs. For some reason, if you begin to feel tired, weaken, or ill, you may want to contact your doctor about the things that you can do to make yourself feel better.

Some times your acupuncturist will recommend things that you should take like herbs. He or she may make a tea for you to drink or have you swallow an herbal supplement in pill form before beginning your acupuncture session. You will want to tell your acupuncturist everything that you are allergic to so you will want to be careful. Some acupuncturists sell you tea bags that you can use at home or suggest foods that will create the same effect. Herbal medication has been proven to help some people with certain diseases or such.

With the diet, herbs, and acupuncture, you will be able to improve the way that you digest your food. This will help your body use the food in the best way possible. For example, chew each bit of food very thoroughly before swallowing, instead of eating large bites quickly. Traditionally, you will want to pat very close attention to the food that you are eating. Instead of watching television while you eat, learn to enjoy each bite. This will help focus all of the body’s energy to the stomach.

With diet and eating, you should be concerned and you will want to talk to your acupuncturist about all of the things that you should take inconsideration. Even though they may not make and specific recommendations, you will be able to talk to your doctor about your diet and you’ll be able to benefit greatly from the acupuncture treatments and a healthier lifestyle.

Fibromyalgia Treatment: Acupuncture

Did you know that Fibromyalgia is a disorder that had affected thousands of people and still there is no cure for the disorder? There are only treatments to offer you some temporary pain relief. With the plain in your muscles, you will find that there is pain in your joints that will cause you to have many problems like stiffness, sleeping problems, and even fatigue. Even though you may be eager to try some alternative medicine, you will find that the Chinese Acupuncture will help you the best. There are many with the disorder who have found success with the acupuncture and other traditional treatments. If you are someone who you love happens to suffer from fibromyalgia to help relieve the symptoms.

Acupuncture is well tolerated with minimal side effects, so patients who participate in this medical treatment will at least leave the doctor’s office no worse than when they arrived. With needles with the thickness of hair, acupuncturists will use the needles to stimulate the body You may feel a slight pinch as they are inserted, but when done properly, acupuncture is both safe and painless. That is why you are going to need a professional.

Fibromyalgia patients receive treatment specifically to help their condition. Not only will the acupuncturist use the needles, but they will also use cupping and warming techniques to help the energies that cause the joint pain. This process takes a relatively short amount of time, and many patients have said that they feel instantly relieved of pain after a treatment. Others, however, seem to feel no relief at all. It can be expensive for you to have acupuncture so you will want to make sure that it is something that will be right for you. Many patients have said that this technique works best with repeated treatments, so realize this could be an expense that you must include in your weekly budget.

Acupuncture is something that could help you with fibromyalgia, however, there is little proof other than the opinions of the patients who have tried it. The studies are simply just difficult to carry out because it can be a mind over matter thing. There are people who have believed that it works to relieve the pain and that is the reason why they have been able to find the relief. Before you go out finding an acupuncturist, you may want to speak with your family doctor and see what they think about the acupuncture. They will give you all the information that you need to find a certified acupuncture practitioner, but also about all the procedures.

Acupuncture Can Be Used For Anyone

Like anything else, there is a wide range of ways that you can practice acupuncture and you will find that when you are an acupuncturist that you have to be proficient with all of the techniques while specialize in one type of kind. You should know that acupuncture is not right for everyone and not all techniques are right for everyone. The acupuncturist will determine what is best for you and your ailments. You will find that this type of therapy can help you with stomachaches, headaches, arthritis, infertility, back pains, and certain diseases or conditions. You will find that it can help you with just about any time of pain and your pain can be corrected by the use of acupuncture.

If you think about acupuncture, you may think of it as a Traditional Chinese medicine. You will want to lye on your stomach for the entire procedure or at least sit in a comfortable chair. Needles only slightly thicker than hairs are inserted into the body in multiple spots, called meridians, in order to help the energy flow of the body, called qi. Although most popular in the world overall and certainly within the United States, TCM acupuncture is not the only technique that can help you rid your body of bad energy flow.

Japanese acupuncturists have a slightly varied technique. When it comes to getting Japanese acupuncture, you will find that it can be less intrusive and rigorous, but you may also find it to be more pleasing and appealing. Use thinner or shorter needles many times. Japanese acupuncture also uses fewer needles in general.

Another technique is Korean hand acupuncture. This is a good type for those who have issues with sitting or lying for long periods. It is also a good way to begin acupuncture if the methods are at first a bit scary to you. Korean hand acupuncture does not only target problems with the hands and fingers, such as arthritis. You will find that there are points on your hands that will affect the entire body. Learning these many points is an art, and so Korean hand acupuncturists are highly skilled professionals. Another form of acupuncture that can be done in one bodily location for those who cannot have needles placed at all points on the body is called auricircular acupuncture. With this, the needles will be placed near your ears. This is used very successfully is drug and alcohol rehabilitation programs.

For those who have pain in their life, acupuncture can be a good way to help with your specific needs. You will want to make sure that the acupuncturists you will want to make sure that there techniques are good for you.

The Tradition of Acupuncture

Acupuncture is a form of medicine that happens to involve the insertions of little needles. You will find that the acupuncture is a practice that began in China and can be traced back through history over eight thousands years. It can be found in areas of Asia, Japan, and Korea. Recently it can be recognized as legitimate forms of medication in the western world and especially in the United States. You will find that more and more doctors are recommending acupuncture to help with certain pains and issues, but it is mixed with modern medicine. It is very important to understand the tradition.

Traditionally, the Chinese saw the body as a whole with several different working energy systems, run by the organs of our bodies. At one time, disease was seen as a disruption in the body system due to a particular part of the system. The vital energy that runs through our bodies is known in acupuncture as “qi” and is what acupuncturists seek to heal through their work. Qi (the energy flow) is blocked by pain, and acupuncture was said to once again unblock it. From the history of things, acupuncturists claim, “no pain, no blockage; no blockage no pain. This means that your pain and blockage go hand and hand and if you can end the pain, the blockage will go away, and if you end the blockage your pain will go away.

Major success of reception into society was first found with acupuncture during the Huang Di (The Yellow Emperor) Dynasty. It was at this time that the ruler discussed medical traditions with his doctor. These dialogues became part of what we now know as The Nei Jing, and it is the earliest medical text found in Asia. It includes two sections—the first on anatomy, disease, diagnosis, and the cosmos and the second on the aspects of acupuncture. Great development in the acupuncture field was also seen in the 7th century AD, with the Sui and Tang Dynasties. It was at this time that acupuncture charts and texts were introduced to the teachings of schools as a form of medicine. The techniques were slowly refined, and during the Ming Dynasty, in the late 16th and early 17th centuries, doctors again made leaps and bounds in the field. Later it became less important with western medicine in the early twentieth century.

When it comes to the tradition of acupuncture it prevailed in the 1950’s and become a part of western medicine. The doctors used it along with modern medicine. Between the 1950s and 1960s the practice was begin highly researched throughout the world. With the new millennium, acupuncture has become something of accepting by western medicine and is offered as a treatment. It has been concluded that acupuncture can be used to help others in a respect of modern medicine. Some people are wary of ideas that involves needles to prick away illness or disease, but it may be something that you maybe able to have in conjunction of modern medicine.

Locating an Acupuncturist

Acupuncture has become a very popular treatment for health related issues of all kinds. You will be able to relieve stress and anxiety along with all sorts of body pains. Acupuncture is something that can be risky, however, with sterilization of needles can have the anxiety. With a trained acupuncturist, you will be able to relieve your pain and find a certified acupuncturist to help you. There are lot of ways that you can locate a professional.

Most people will use the word of mouth to find an acupuncturist. You would be surprised at the number of people who have regular acupuncture treatments. For some, it’s like going to the chiropractor to get your back realigned – a weekly or bi-weekly treatment to make life easier. You may want to ask your friends or family of their opinion to some of the local acupuncturists. Maybe they see an acupuncturist that they really like or maybe they have seen an acupuncturist that they did not like. Both are important to note. If a friend has a bad experience with an acupuncturist, be careful. You will find a good many unlicensed practitioners, but you will be putting yourself at more risk than you bargain for if you see someone without a license. If your friends do not see an acupuncturist, perhaps someone they know does. This is the beauty of word of mouth; there is an endless network of opinions and resources.

You will find that many of your friends and family members, along with the healthcare professionals to help you find a licensed acupuncturist in your area. In fact, because of its popularity and effectiveness, many medical professionals are becoming certified acupuncturists. However, if your doctor ends up recommending that acupuncture is a method of treatment, then they will be able to recommend someone for you to go and see.

A lot of people will also go online and find an acupuncturist to help them relive their pains. Because most states require acupuncturists to be licensed, there is also a database of competent acupuncture practitioners. If you look up the American Association of Oriental Medicine, you will be able to find acupuncturist nation wide. This association is comprised of state acupuncture and medical boards. Besides the nationwide search, there are also links to each state medical board or acupuncture licensing department, where you may also search for licensed practitioners near you.

If you are looking for an acupuncturist, you will find that there are many concerns that will allow you to feel safe and comfortable. You will want to make sure that you see the credentials of the acupuncturist before you contact the stat’s acupuncture licensing board. Also, you may want to arrange a meeting with your acupuncturist to learn about how they go about the practice and how they handle the professional end of the process. Make sure that you find a good acupuncturist, because it can be hard to find a good one.

Just How Safe Is Acupuncture

Acupuncture happens to be a very popular and profitable form of medicine, since millions of people will use acupuncture to treat all of their health issues. You will find that you can go from back pain to headaches to sleeping disorders. There is a lot of uncertainly about acupuncture, however, you will find that this articles has a lot of advantages and disadvantages for you to consider.

Most people who are not familiar with acupuncture are often worried about needles being inserted into the body. This is a typical concern that should be serious, however, you should know that if it is done properly, you will be able to have acupuncture performed properly and safely. There are licensed acupuncturists, who must pass state-established training standards to become certified, and many doctors and specialists, such as neurologists or those working in physical medicine, are becoming certified in order to perform acupuncture as a treatment option for patients.

You should know that the United States FDA or Food and Drug Administration has approved the use of needles only by licensed practitioners. This approval should ease some concerns about acupuncture as a safe practice. In fact, there have been very few complaints logged at the FDA about acupuncture. There have been concerns and complaints of non-sterile needles that can end up spreading infection and disease. Thus, if you are seeking acupuncture treatment, ensure that the acupuncture needles have been sterilized. Professional acupuncturists will certainly work with sterile needles to ensure client safety.

Certainly, with acupuncture, there is the risk of a needle being inserted too deeply, which could cause organs to be punctured. This risk if a very small risk and you should begin to think about all of the millions of people who have seen success in acupuncture treatments, and there are very few cases of needles puncturing organs. Furthermore, this sort of situation can most likely be avoided by undergoing treatment with a licensed acupuncture practitioner. In addition, if you feel serious pain when getting the needles injected, you may want to talk to the practitioner because they may be putting them in too deep. In fact, some people do not even feel the needles being inserted into your pressure points. If you do feel pain after or during an acupuncture treatment, you should see a medical doctor right away.

There are two risks that you will want to consider dangerous or unsafe. You will want to think about both of these risks, but also know that they can be avoided if you use a qualified acupuncture practitioner that has been certified and has some experience. With the millions of people who have tried it and had success, you will find that your health issues may become a lot better for everyone with the use of acupuncture. You can also rest assured that the procedure can be completely safe if you take all the right precautions.

Five Elements in Acupuncture

You will study the five main elements or the most fundamental things of acupuncture and you will be able to study the traditional Chinese medicine. You will find that there is an important part of the universe that controls something. You will find that there is earth, water, fire, metal, and wood. You will learn how the five elements and their meanings can affect the body and how it is important for any acupuncturist to take these ideas in mind. If you are interested in acupuncture or in the Chinese culture, you will want to research more about the five elements and get a better understanding of the Chinese world of view.

Most of the time Chinese ideas of the elements sound something of mythology or mystical to the Western Society, but these elements will bring you to the same conclusion of Western Medicine, except it has a different way of relating life to medicine. The five elements relate closely with the idea of “qi,” or energy in the body. Acupuncture seeks to resolve imbalances in the five elements, which result in the disruption of the flow of qi in the body.

As you may know, the Chinese look at everything in the aspect of yin and yang; everything has a positive, everything as a negative. The Chinese also look at everything with a view of yin and yang. You can think of yin and yang as opposites in the terms of spring and winter. Yin is associated with all of that is positive. You will find that the rebirth, warmth of life, spring, and all of the light in the world is Yin. Yin is the beauty of the world. It is the beauty of nature. When it comes to Yang, you will find that it is everything dark in the world. Things like winter, downward actions, hibernation, and dying of summer is what Yang is referred to. Each element can be associated with either yin or yang, and each of these pairings in turn represents a part of the body.

When it comes to the spleen and stomach, you will find dampness or yang. You will find that coldness is linked to the kidneys and bladder. Then the heart and the small intestine is paired with fire, while metal is associated to the large intestine, lungs, and dryness. As for the wood, you will find it to be associated with the liver and the gallbladder is the wind. When you study these elements and the body, you will begin to know how you can treat your ailments and you will be able to use acupuncture to help your body get back in line. In fact, many studies will support all of these associations. You will need to remember that you need to be open to new ideas and then you can find ways to live in a healthy way.

Cupping as an Effective Acupuncture Method

Acupuncture happens to be a traditional Chinese medical treatment and you will find that the insertion of these thin needles that will hit your tension points will relieve all pain that you have. You will find that pain from your back, cramps, nausea, and can help you with serious conditions like infertility and cancer. You will find that there are a lot of benefits that you can get from using acupuncture and cupping is used along with acupuncture. Cupping is another traditional Chinese remedy that will help you to relieve pain and it is used to generate good energies. You will find that acupuncture is something that is done by a professional and they will give you more information before you decide to go through with the procedure.

Suction is the basic concept of cupping traditionally; small cups or jars (usually made from glass or bamboo) are heated from the inside with fire to create a vacuum and then placed on the body. The cups are heated and placed to the skin to begin suction and are left on the body for at least fifteen minutes, however, the treatment can be much longer. Today, this technique can be done with a suctioning pump as well. This allows more regulation of the suction created. In either case, the placement of the suctioning device is crucial. There are acupuncture sports that the professional will place a cup on each to help relieve your pain or you can be placed around a specific problem region.. It was thought in ancient China that by stimulating these areas, you could rid the body of negative energies like diseases and pain. Some people believe that cupping will open up the lungs and you’ll be able to let out all the toxins through your breathing and through your skin pores. You will find that it can make breathing easier for you. It is also believed to draw the cold and dampness out of your system, creating a healthier body overall.

There have been researches done to show and prove that there are a lot of real benefits from cupping and it’s not just an old tale. Cupping helps stimulate the blood vessels in an affected area, drawing out old blood that settles in a bruise or otherwise pained area and making room for new blood, with a fresh supply of oxygen, to make its way to the area. Since it is creating a better environment, you will find that the tissues will begin to repair themselves.

You will want to keep in mind that cupping is not right for everyone. You will find that if you are pregnant you should be very careful with cupping and it shouldn’t be done where there are open sores or wounds. You will find that there should not be cupping where there is excess hair or on body parts that have different angles and surfaces. When you begin cupping you will begin to see large bruises from the cupping and it just goes and shows that this is proof that it is working, but you will notice that these bruises will disappear within a week. Ask your doctor if cupping is right for you, if you are willing to turn to alternative medications.

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<a name="top">Your search has been for:   Acupuncture site:.gov Jump to: <a href="#overview">Key Topics</a> || <a href="#extend">In-Depth</a> || <a href="#sources">Selected Sources</a> || <a href="#advanced">Dig Deeper</a> <a name="overview"></a><a href="#" onclick="toggle_visibility('overv'); return false;" title="Pertinent Info, most relevant to your research."> KEY TOPICS<image src="" alt="Pertinent Info, most relevant to your research."></a> Acupuncture is the stimulation of specific points on the body by a variety of techniques, including the insertion of thin metal needles though the skin.<a href="#hdng0">(More...)</a> <a name="hdng0"></a>Acupuncture is the stimulation of specific points on the body by a variety of techniques, including the insertion of thin metal needles though the skin. It is intended to remove blockages in the flow of qi and restore and maintain health. aims to restore and maintain health through the stimulation of specific points on the body. <a href="http://nccam.nih.gov/health/acupuncture/" TARGET="_blank" [1]</a> The term "acupuncture" describes a family of procedures involving the stimulation of anatomical points on the body using a variety of techniques.<a href="http://nccam.nih.gov/health/acupuncture/" TARGET="_blank" [1]</a> The acupuncture technique that has been most often studied scientifically involves penetrating the skin with thin, solid, metallic needles that are manipulated by the hands or by electrical stimulation.<a href="http://nccam.nih.gov/health/acupuncture/" TARGET="_blank" [1]</a> People experience acupuncture differently, but most feel no or minimal pain as the needles are inserted.<a href="http://nccam.nih.gov/health/acupuncture/" TARGET="_blank" [1]</a> The report from a Consensus Development Conference on Acupuncture held at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) in 1997 stated that acupuncture is being "widely" practicedby thousands of physicians, dentists, acupuncturists, and other practitioners-for relief or prevention of pain and for various other health conditions.<a href="http://nccam.nih.gov/health/acupuncture/" TARGET="_blank" [1]</a> National acupuncture organizations (which can be found through libraries or Web search engines) may provide referrals to acupuncturists.<a href="http://nccam.nih.gov/health/acupuncture/" TARGET="_blank" [1]</a> In the years since the Consensus Statement was issued, the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) has funded extensive research to advance scientific understanding of acupuncture.<a href="http://nccam.nih.gov/health/acupuncture/" TARGET="_blank" [1]</a> Complementary medicine is used together with conventional medicine, and alternative medicine is used in place of conventional medicine. use by American adults to datean estimated 8.2 million U.S. adults had ever used acupuncture, and an estimated 2.1 million U.S. adults had used acupuncture in the previous year.<a href="http://nccam.nih.gov/health/acupuncture/" TARGET="_blank" [1]</a> In the United States, where practitioners incorporate healing traditions from China, Japan, Korea, and other countries, acupuncture is considered part of complementary and alternative medicine A group of diverse medical and health care systems, practices, and products that are not presently considered to be part of conventional medicine.<a href="http://nccam.nih.gov/health/acupuncture/" TARGET="_blank" [1]</a> As part of traditional Chinese medicine A whole medical system that originated in China. It is based on the concept that disease results from disruption in the flow of qi and imbalance in the forces of yin and yang. Practices such as herbs, meditation, massage, and acupuncture seek to aid healing by restoring the yin-yang balance and the flow of qi (TCM), acupuncture A family of procedures that originated in traditional Chinese medicine.<a href="http://nccam.nih.gov/health/acupuncture/" TARGET="_blank" [1]</a> Practiced in China and other Asian countries for thousands of years, acupuncture is one of the key components of traditional Chinese medicine.<a href="http://nccam.nih.gov/health/acupuncture/" TARGET="_blank" [1]</a> American practices of acupuncture incorporate medical traditions from China, Japan, Korea, and other countries.<a href="http://nccam.nih.gov/health/acupuncture/" TARGET="_blank" [1]</a> Most states require a license to practice acupuncture; however, education and training standards and requirements for obtaining a license to practice vary from state to state.<a href="http://nccam.nih.gov/health/acupuncture/" TARGET="_blank" [1]</a> Summarizing earlier research, the 1997 NIH Consensus Statement on Acupuncture found that, overall, results were hard to interpret because of problems with the size and design of the studies.<a href="http://nccam.nih.gov/health/acupuncture/" TARGET="_blank" [1]</a> Some insurance companies may cover the costs of acupuncture, while others may not. It is important to check with your insurer before you start treatment to see whether acupuncture is covered for your condition and, if so, to what extent. (For more information, see NCCAM's fact sheet Paying for CAM Treatment <a href="http://nccam.nih.gov/health/financial/">Paying for CAM Treatment</a>.)<a href="http://nccam.nih.gov/health/acupuncture/" TARGET="_blank" [1]</a> Scientists are studying the efficacy of acupuncture for a wide range of conditions.<a href="http://nccam.nih.gov/health/acupuncture/" TARGET="_blank" [1]</a> Although a license does not ensure quality of care, it does indicate that the practitioner meets certain standards regarding the knowledge and use of acupuncture.<a href="http://nccam.nih.gov/health/acupuncture/" TARGET="_blank" [1]</a> Acupuncture can cause potentially serious side effects if not delivered properly by a qualified practitioner.<a href="http://nccam.nih.gov/health/acupuncture/" TARGET="_blank" [1]</a> When not delivered properly, acupuncture can cause serious adverse effects, including infections and punctured organs.<a href="http://nccam.nih.gov/health/acupuncture/" TARGET="_blank" [1]</a> Health care providers can be a resource for referral to acupuncturists, and some conventional medical practitionersincluding physicians and dentistspractice acupuncture.<a href="http://nccam.nih.gov/health/acupuncture/" TARGET="_blank" [1]</a> Relatively few complications have been reported from the use of acupuncture.<a href="http://nccam.nih.gov/health/acupuncture/" TARGET="_blank" [1]</a> Berman BM, Lao L, Langenberg P, et al. Effectiveness of acupuncture as adjunctive therapy in osteoarthritis of the knee: a randomized, controlled trial.<a href="http://nccam.nih.gov/health/acupuncture/" TARGET="_blank" [1]</a> One commonly cited source describes meridians as 14 main channels "connecting the body in a weblike interconnecting matrix" of at least 2,000 acupuncture points. Acupuncture became better known in the United States in 1971, when New York Times reporter James Reston wrote about how doctors in China used needles to ease his pain after surgery.<a href="http://nccam.nih.gov/health/acupuncture/" TARGET="_blank" [1]</a> Improper needle placement, movement of the patient, or a defect in the needle can cause soreness and pain during treatment. It is important to seek treatment from a qualified acupuncture practitioner.<a href="http://nccam.nih.gov/health/acupuncture/" TARGET="_blank" [1]</a> Do not rely on a diagnosis of disease by an acupuncture practitioner who does not have substantial conventional medical training.<a href="http://nccam.nih.gov/health/acupuncture/" TARGET="_blank" [1]</a> Relatively few complications from the use of acupuncture have been reported to the FDA, in light of the millions of people treated each year and the number of acupuncture needles used.<a href="http://nccam.nih.gov/health/acupuncture/" TARGET="_blank" [1]</a> The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates acupuncture needles for use by licensed practitioners, requiring that needles be manufactured and labeled according to certain standards.<a href="http://nccam.nih.gov/health/acupuncture/" TARGET="_blank" [1]</a> There have been many studies on acupuncture's potential health benefits for a wide range of conditions.<a href="http://nccam.nih.gov/health/acupuncture/" TARGET="_blank" [1]</a> A non-Federal, nonadvocate, 12-member panel representing the fields of acupuncture, pain, psychology, psychiatry, physical medicine and rehabilitation, drug abuse, family practice, internal medicine, health policy, epidemiology, statistics, physiology, biophysics, and the public. 25 experts from these same fields presented data to the panel and a conference audience of 1,200.<a href="http://consensus.nih.gov/1997/1997Acupuncture107html.htm" TARGET="_blank" [2]</a> When more than one treatment is possible, the clinician may make the choice taking into account the patient's preferences. While it is often thought that there is substantial research evidence to support conventional medical practices, this is frequently not the case. This does not mean that these treatments are ineffective. The data in support of acupuncture are as strong as those for many accepted Western medical therapies.<a href="http://consensus.nih.gov/1997/1997Acupuncture107html.htm" TARGET="_blank" [2]</a> Although biochemical and physiologic studies have provided insight into some of the biologic effects of acupuncture, acupuncture practice is based on a very different model of energy balance. This theory might or might not provide new insights to medical research, but it deserves further attention because of its potential for elucidating the basis for acupuncture.<a href="http://consensus.nih.gov/1997/1997Acupuncture107html.htm" TARGET="_blank" [2]</a> Emphasis should be placed on studies that examine acupuncture as used in clinical practice and that respect the theoretical basis for acupuncture therapy. Although randomized controlled trials provide a strong basis for inferring causality, other study designs such as those used in clinical epidemiology or outcomes research can also provide important insights regarding the usefulness of acupuncture for various conditions. There have been few such studies in the acupuncture literature.<a href="http://consensus.nih.gov/1997/1997Acupuncture107html.htm" TARGET="_blank" [2]</a> There is evidence that acupuncture does not demonstrate efficacy for cessation of smoking and may not be efficacious for some other conditions. Although many other conditions have received some attention in the literature and, in fact, the research suggests some exciting potential areas for the use of acupuncture, the quality or quantity of the research evidence is not sufficient to provide firm evidence of efficacy at this time.<a href="http://consensus.nih.gov/1997/1997Acupuncture107html.htm" TARGET="_blank" [2]</a> There is evidence of efficacy for postoperative dental pain. There are reasonable studies (although sometimes only single studies) showing relief of pain with acupuncture on diverse pain conditions such as menstrual cramps, tennis elbow, and fibromyalgia. This suggests that acupuncture may have a more general effect on pain.<a href="http://consensus.nih.gov/1997/1997Acupuncture107html.htm" TARGET="_blank" [2]</a> The number and length of treatments and the specific points used may vary among individuals and during the course of treatment. Given this reality, it is perhaps encouraging that there exist a number of studies of sufficient quality to assess the efficacy of acupuncture for certain conditions.<a href="http://consensus.nih.gov/1997/1997Acupuncture107html.htm" TARGET="_blank" [2]</a> The vast majority of papers studying acupuncture in the biomedical literature consist of case reports, case series, or intervention studies with designs inadequate to assess efficacy. This discussion of efficacy refers to needle acupuncture (manual or electroacupuncture) because the published research is primarily on needle acupuncture and often does not encompass the full breadth of acupuncture techniques and practices.<a href="http://consensus.nih.gov/1997/1997Acupuncture107html.htm" TARGET="_blank" [2]</a> Continued access to qualified acupuncture professionals for appropriate conditions should be ensured. Because many individuals seek health care treatment from both acupuncturists and physicians, communication between these providers should be strengthened and improved. If a patient is under the care of an acupuncturist and a physician, both practitioners should be informed.<a href="http://consensus.nih.gov/1997/1997Acupuncture107html.htm" TARGET="_blank" [2]</a> The difficulties are accentuated when the treatment is based on theories unfamiliar to Western medicine and its practitioners. It is important, therefore, that the evaluation of acupuncture for the treatment of specific conditions be carried out carefully, using designs that can withstand rigorous scrutiny.<a href="http://consensus.nih.gov/1997/1997Acupuncture107html.htm" TARGET="_blank" [2]</a> Examples of disorders for which the research evidence is less convincing but for which there are some positive clinical trials include addiction, stroke rehabilitation, carpal tunnel syndrome, osteoarthritis, and headache. Acupuncture treatment for many conditions such as asthma or addiction should be part of a comprehensive management program.<a href="http://consensus.nih.gov/1997/1997Acupuncture107html.htm" TARGET="_blank" [2]</a> To address important issues regarding acupuncture, the NIH Office of Alternative Medicine and the NIH Office of Medical Applications of Research organized a 2-1/2-day conference to evaluate the scientific and medical data on the uses, risks, and benefits of acupuncture procedures for a variety of conditions.<a href="http://consensus.nih.gov/1997/1997Acupuncture107html.htm" TARGET="_blank" [2]</a> Ample clinical experience, supported by some research data, suggests that acupuncture may be a reasonable option for a number of clinical conditions.<a href="http://consensus.nih.gov/1997/1997Acupuncture107html.htm" TARGET="_blank" [2]</a> Papers should describe enrollment procedures, eligibility criteria, description of the clinical characteristics of the subjects, methods for diagnosis, and a description of the protocol (i.e., randomization method, specific definition of treatment, and control conditions, including length of treatment and number of acupuncture sessions).<a href="http://consensus.nih.gov/1997/1997Acupuncture107html.htm" TARGET="_blank" [2]</a> Mechanisms that provide a Western scientific explanation for some of the effects of acupuncture are beginning to emerge. This is encouraging and may provide novel insights into neural, endocrine, and other physiological processes. Research should be supported to provide a better understanding of the mechanisms involved, and such research may lead to improvements in treatment.<a href="http://consensus.nih.gov/1997/1997Acupuncture107html.htm" TARGET="_blank" [2]</a> The incorporation of acupuncture as a treatment raises numerous questions of public policy. These include issues of access, cost-effectiveness, reimbursement by State, Federal, and private payers, and training, licensure, and accreditation. These public policy issues must be founded on quality epidemiologic and demographic data and effectiveness research.<a href="http://consensus.nih.gov/1997/1997Acupuncture107html.htm" TARGET="_blank" [2]</a> Shlay JC et al. The efficacy of a standardized acupuncture regimen compared to placebo as a treatment of pain caused by peripheral neuropathy in HIV-infected patients.<a href="http://consensus.nih.gov/1997/1997Acupuncture107html.htm" TARGET="_blank" [2]</a> Konefal J, Duncan R, Clemence C. Comparison of three levels of auricular acupuncture in an outpatient substance abuse treatment program.<a href="http://consensus.nih.gov/1997/1997Acupuncture107html.htm" TARGET="_blank" [2]</a> There are a variety of approaches to diagnosis and treatment in American acupuncture that incorporate medical traditions from China, Japan, Korea, and other countries.<a href="http://consensus.nih.gov/1997/1997Acupuncture107html.htm" TARGET="_blank" [2]</a> The practice of acupuncture to treat identifiable pathophysiological conditions in American medicine was rare until the visit of President Nixon to China in 1972.<a href="http://consensus.nih.gov/1997/1997Acupuncture107html.htm" TARGET="_blank" [2]</a> Many other conditions have been treated by acupuncture; the World Health Organization, for example, has listed more than 40 for which the technique may be indicated.<a href="http://consensus.nih.gov/1997/1997Acupuncture107html.htm" TARGET="_blank" [2]</a> Acupuncture as a therapeutic intervention is widely practiced in the United States. While there have been many studies of its potential usefulness, many of these studies provide equivocal results because of design, sample size, and other factors. The issue is further complicated by inherent difficulties in the use of appropriate controls, such as placebos and sham acupuncture groups.<a href="http://consensus.nih.gov/1997/1997Acupuncture107html.htm" TARGET="_blank" [2]</a> There is substantial controversy over the use of sham acupuncture in control groups. This may be less of a problem in studies not involving pain.<a href="http://consensus.nih.gov/1997/1997Acupuncture107html.htm" TARGET="_blank" [2]</a> Optimal trials should also use standardized outcomes and appropriate statistical analyses. This assessment of efficacy focuses on high-quality trials comparing acupuncture with sham acupuncture or placebo.<a href="http://consensus.nih.gov/1997/1997Acupuncture107html.htm" TARGET="_blank" [2]</a> Recourse for patient grievance and professional censure are provided through credentialing and licensing procedures and are available through appropriate State jurisdictions. It has been reported that more than 1 million Americans currently receive acupuncture each year.<a href="http://consensus.nih.gov/1997/1997Acupuncture107html.htm" TARGET="_blank" [2]</a> There is evidence that some patients have limited access to acupuncture services because of inability to pay. Insurance companies can decrease or remove financial barriers to access depending on their willingness to provide coverage for appropriate acupuncture services. An increasing number of insurance companies are either considering this possibility or now provide coverage for acupuncture services.<a href="http://consensus.nih.gov/1997/1997Acupuncture107html.htm" TARGET="_blank" [2]</a> Margolin A, Avants SK, Chang P, Kosten TR. Acupuncture for the treatment of cocaine dependence in methadone-maintained patients.<a href="http://consensus.nih.gov/1997/1997Acupuncture107html.htm" TARGET="_blank" [2]</a> Acupuncture focuses on a holistic, energy-based approach to the patient rather than a disease-oriented diagnostic and treatment model.<a href="http://consensus.nih.gov/1997/1997Acupuncture107html.htm" TARGET="_blank" [2]</a> Although much needs to be accomplished, the emergence of plausible mechanisms for the therapeutic effects of acupuncture is encouraging. The introduction of acupuncture into the choice of treatment modalities readily available to the public is in its early stages.<a href="http://consensus.nih.gov/1997/1997Acupuncture107html.htm" TARGET="_blank" [2]</a> The controlled trials usually have involved only adults and did not involve long-term (i.e., years) acupuncture treatment.<a href="http://consensus.nih.gov/1997/1997Acupuncture107html.htm" TARGET="_blank" [2]</a> Clavel-Chapelon F, Paoletti C, Banhamou S. Smoking cessation rates 4 years after treatment by nicotine gum and acupuncture.<a href="http://consensus.nih.gov/1997/1997Acupuncture107html.htm" TARGET="_blank" [2]</a> Bullock MD, Umen AJ, Culliton PD, Olander RT. Acupuncture treatment of alcoholic recidivism: a pilot study.<a href="http://consensus.nih.gov/1997/1997Acupuncture107html.htm" TARGET="_blank" [2]</a> Naeser MA. Acupuncture in the treatment of paralysis due to central nervous system damage.<a href="http://consensus.nih.gov/1997/1997Acupuncture107html.htm" TARGET="_blank" [2]</a> Some of the material is likely to be out of date, and at worst simply wrong. For reliable, current information on this and other health topics, we recommend consulting the National Institutes of Health's MedlinePlus http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ <a HREF="http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/">http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/</a>. This statement was originally published as: Acupuncture.<a href="http://consensus.nih.gov/1997/1997Acupuncture107html.htm" TARGET="_blank" [2]</a> The general theory of acupuncture is based on the premise that there are patterns of energy flow (Qi) through the body that are essential for health. Disruptions of this flow are believed to be responsible for disease.<a href="http://consensus.nih.gov/1997/1997Acupuncture107html.htm" TARGET="_blank" [2]</a> Since that time, there has been an explosion of interest in the United States and Europe in the application of the technique of acupuncture to Western medicine.<a href="http://consensus.nih.gov/1997/1997Acupuncture107html.htm" TARGET="_blank" [2]</a> Acupuncture describes a family of procedures involving stimulation of anatomical locations on the skin by a variety of techniques.<a href="http://consensus.nih.gov/1997/1997Acupuncture107html.htm" TARGET="_blank" [2]</a> Stimulation by acupuncture may also activate the hypothalamus and the pituitary gland, resulting in a broad spectrum of systemic effects. Alteration in the secretion of neurotransmitters and neurohormones and changes in the regulation of blood flow, both centrally and peripherally, have been documented.<a href="http://consensus.nih.gov/1997/1997Acupuncture107html.htm" TARGET="_blank" [2]</a> Sung YF, Kutner MH, Cerine FC, Frederickson EL. Comparison of the effects of acupuncture and codeine on postoperative dental pain.<a href="http://consensus.nih.gov/1997/1997Acupuncture107html.htm" TARGET="_blank" [2]</a> Lao L, Bergman S, Langenberg P, Wong RH, Berman B. Efficacy of Chinese acupuncture on postoperative oral surgery pain.<a href="http://consensus.nih.gov/1997/1997Acupuncture107html.htm" TARGET="_blank" [2]</a> According to contemporary research standards, there is a paucity of high-quality research assessing efficacy of acupuncture compared with placebo or sham acupuncture.<a href="http://consensus.nih.gov/1997/1997Acupuncture107html.htm" TARGET="_blank" [2]</a> Findings from basic research have begun to elucidate the mechanisms of action of acupuncture, including the release of opioids and other peptides in the central nervous system and the periphery and changes in neuroendocrine function.<a href="http://consensus.nih.gov/1997/1997Acupuncture107html.htm" TARGET="_blank" [2]</a> Further research is likely to uncover additional areas where acupuncture interventions will be useful.<a href="http://consensus.nih.gov/1997/1997Acupuncture107html.htm" TARGET="_blank" [2]</a> Placement of a needle in any position elicits a biological response that complicates the interpretation of studies involving sham acupuncture.<a href="http://consensus.nih.gov/1997/1997Acupuncture107html.htm" TARGET="_blank" [2]</a> There There is clear evidence that needle acupuncture is efficacious for adult postoperative and chemotherapy nausea and vomiting and probably for the nausea of pregnancy.<a href="http://consensus.nih.gov/1997/1997Acupuncture107html.htm" TARGET="_blank" [2]</a> A focus of attention has been the role of endogenous opioids in acupuncture analgesia. Considerable evidence Considerable evidence supports the claim that opioid peptides are released during acupuncture and that the analgesic effects of acupuncture are at least partially explained by their actions. That opioid antagonists such as naloxone reverse the analgesic effects of acupuncture further strengthens this hypothesis.<a href="http://consensus.nih.gov/1997/1997Acupuncture107html.htm" TARGET="_blank" [2]</a> Norheim AJ, F'nneb' V. Acupuncture adverse effects are more than occasional case reports: results from questionnaires among 1135 randomly selected doctors and 197 acupuncturists.<a href="http://consensus.nih.gov/1997/1997Acupuncture107html.htm" TARGET="_blank" [2]</a> Prev Med 1997 Jan-Feb;26(1):25-8. He D, Berg JE, Hostmark AT. Effects of acupuncture on smoking cessation or reduction for motivated smokers.<a href="http://consensus.nih.gov/1997/1997Acupuncture107html.htm" TARGET="_blank" [2]</a> Li Y, Tougas G, Chiverton SG, Hunt RH. The effect of acupuncture on gastrointestinal function and disorders.<a href="http://consensus.nih.gov/1997/1997Acupuncture107html.htm" TARGET="_blank" [2]</a> Ter Riet G, Kleijnen J, Knipschild P. Acupuncture and chronic pain: a criteria based meta-analysis.<a href="http://consensus.nih.gov/1997/1997Acupuncture107html.htm" TARGET="_blank" [2]</a> Naeser MA, Hahn KK, Lieberman B. Real vs sham laser acupuncture and microamps TENS to treat carpal tunnel syndrome and worksite wrist pain: pilot study.<a href="http://consensus.nih.gov/1997/1997Acupuncture107html.htm" TARGET="_blank" [2]</a> Patel M, Gutzwiller F, et al. A meta-analysis of acupuncture for chronic pain.<a href="http://consensus.nih.gov/1997/1997Acupuncture107html.htm" TARGET="_blank" [2]</a> Acupuncture Acupuncture is a component of the health care system of China that can be traced back for at least 2,500 years.<a href="http://consensus.nih.gov/1997/1997Acupuncture107html.htm" TARGET="_blank" [2]</a> Acupuncture may correct imbalances of flow at identifiable points close to the skin.<a href="http://consensus.nih.gov/1997/1997Acupuncture107html.htm" TARGET="_blank" [2]</a> For making bibliographic reference to consensus statement no. 107 in the electronic form displayed here, it is recommended that the following format be used: Acupuncture.<a href="http://consensus.nih.gov/1997/1997Acupuncture107html.htm" TARGET="_blank" [2]</a> Birch S, Hammerschlag R. Acupuncture efficacy: a compendium of controlled clinical trials.<a href="http://consensus.nih.gov/1997/1997Acupuncture107html.htm" TARGET="_blank" [2]</a> Hammerschlag R, Morris MM. Clinical trials comparing acupuncture to biomedical standard care: a criteria-based evaluation.<a href="http://consensus.nih.gov/1997/1997Acupuncture107html.htm" TARGET="_blank" [2]</a> Liao SJ, Lee MHM, Ng NKY. Principles and practice of contemporary acupuncture.<a href="http://consensus.nih.gov/1997/1997Acupuncture107html.htm" TARGET="_blank" [2]</a> Many studies Many studies in animals and humans have demonstrated that acupuncture can cause multiple biological responses. These responses can occur locally, i.e., at or close to the site of application, or at a distance, mediated mainly by sensory neurons to many structures within the central nervous system. This can lead to activation of pathways affecting various physiological systems in the brain as well as in the periphery.<a href="http://consensus.nih.gov/1997/1997Acupuncture107html.htm" TARGET="_blank" [2]</a> Many acupuncture educational programs are accredited by an agency that is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.<a href="http://consensus.nih.gov/1997/1997Acupuncture107html.htm" TARGET="_blank" [2]</a> Diehl DL, Kaplan G, Coulter I, Glik D, Hurwitz EL. Use of acupuncture by American physicians.<a href="http://consensus.nih.gov/1997/1997Acupuncture107html.htm" TARGET="_blank" [2]</a> Acupuncture is a complex intervention that may vary for different patients with similar chief complaints.<a href="http://consensus.nih.gov/1997/1997Acupuncture107html.htm" TARGET="_blank" [2]</a> As with other types of interventions, some individuals are poor responders to specific acupuncture protocols. Both animal and human laboratory and clinical experience suggest that the majority of subjects respond to acupuncture, with a minority not responding.<a href="http://consensus.nih.gov/1997/1997Acupuncture107html.htm" TARGET="_blank" [2]</a> Dundee JW, Chestnutt WN, Ghaly RG, Lynas AG. Traditional Chinese acupuncture: a potentially useful antiemetic? Br Med J (Clin Res) 1986 ; 293(6547):583-4.<a href="http://consensus.nih.gov/1997/1997Acupuncture107html.htm" TARGET="_blank" [2]</a> Bullock ML, Culliton PD, Olander RT. Controlled trial of acupuncture for severe recidivist alcoholism.<a href="http://consensus.nih.gov/1997/1997Acupuncture107html.htm" TARGET="_blank" [2]</a> Relatively few high-quality, randomized, controlled trials have been published on the effects of acupuncture. Such studies should be designed in a rigorous manner to allow evaluation of the effectiveness of acupuncture. Such studies should include experienced acupuncture practitioners to design and deliver appropriate interventions.<a href="http://consensus.nih.gov/1997/1997Acupuncture107html.htm" TARGET="_blank" [2]</a> In order to fully assess the efficacy of acupuncture, studies should be designed to examine not only fixed acupuncture points, but also the Eastern medical systems that provide the foundation for acupuncture therapy, including the choice of points. In addition to assessing the effect of acupuncture in context, this would also provide the opportunity to determine whether Eastern medical theories predict more effective acupuncture points.<a href="http://consensus.nih.gov/1997/1997Acupuncture107html.htm" TARGET="_blank" [2]</a> There is disagreement on correct needle placement. Particularly in the studies on pain, sham acupuncture often seems to have either intermediate effects between the placebo and 'real' acupuncture points or effects similar to those of the 'real' acupuncture points.<a href="http://consensus.nih.gov/1997/1997Acupuncture107html.htm" TARGET="_blank" [2]</a> The most studied mechanism of stimulation of acupuncture points employs penetration of the skin by thin, solid, metallic needles, which are manipulated manually or by electrical stimulation. The majority of comments in this report are based on data that came from such studies. Stimulation of these areas by moxibustion, pressure, heat, and lasers is used in acupuncture practice, but because of the paucity of studies, these techniques are more difficult to evaluate.<a href="http://consensus.nih.gov/1997/1997Acupuncture107html.htm" TARGET="_blank" [2]</a> A commonly A commonly used control group is sham acupuncture, using techniques that are not intended to stimulate known acupuncture points.<a href="http://consensus.nih.gov/1997/1997Acupuncture107html.htm" TARGET="_blank" [2]</a> Competing theoretical orientations (e.g., Chinese, Japanese, French) currently exist that might predict divergent therapeutic approaches (i.e., the use of different acupuncture points). Research projects should be designed to assess the relative merit of these divergent approaches and to compare these systems with treatment programs using fixed acupuncture points.<a href="http://consensus.nih.gov/1997/1997Acupuncture107html.htm" TARGET="_blank" [2]</a> Use of acupuncture needles should always follow FDA regulations, including use of sterile, single-use needles. It is noted that these practices are already being done by many acupuncture practitioners; however, these practices should be uniform.<a href="http://consensus.nih.gov/1997/1997Acupuncture107html.htm" TARGET="_blank" [2]</a> A majority of States A majority of States provide licensure or registration for acupuncture practitioners.<a href="http://consensus.nih.gov/1997/1997Acupuncture107html.htm" TARGET="_blank" [2]</a> An important factor An important factor for the integration of acupuncture into the health care system is the training and credentialing of acupuncture practitioners by the appropriate State agencies. This is necessary to allow the public and other health practitioners to identify qualified acupuncture practitioners. The acupuncture educational community has made substantial progress in this area and is encouraged to continue along this path.<a href="http://consensus.nih.gov/1997/1997Acupuncture107html.htm" TARGET="_blank" [2]</a> Medical devices; Reclassification of acupuncture needles for the practice of acupuncture.<a href="http://consensus.nih.gov/1997/1997Acupuncture107html.htm" TARGET="_blank" [2]</a> Issues of training, licensure, and reimbursement remain to be clarified. There is sufficient evidence, however, of its potential value to conventional medicine to encourage further studies. There is sufficient evidence of acupuncture's value to expand its use into conventional medicine and to encourage further studies of its physiology and clinical value.<a href="http://consensus.nih.gov/1997/1997Acupuncture107html.htm" TARGET="_blank" [2]</a> <a href="#top"><img alt="Back to Top" title="Back to Top" src="" style="border: 0px solid ; width: 72px; height: 14px;"></a> <a name="extend"></a><a href="#" onclick="toggle_visibility('ext'); return false;" title="Detailed Info, highly relevant to your research."> IN-DEPTH<image src="" alt="Detailed Info, highly relevant to your research."></a> Section Contents: American practices of acupuncture use medical traditions from China, Japan, Korea and other countries.<a href="#hdng1">(More...)</a> There is strong evidence from clinical trials that acupuncture relieves nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy (see Question 6 ).<a href="#hdng2">(More...)</a> The Board evaluates professional competency, investigates complaints, and enforces the standards of practice for the acupuncture profession.<a href="#hdng3">(More...)</a> <a name="hdng1"></a>American practices of acupuncture use medical traditions from China, Japan, Korea and other countries. <a href="http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/acupuncture.html" TARGET="_blank" [3]</a> Acupuncture is the practice of inserting thin needles into specific body points to improve health and well-being. It originated in China more than 2,000 years ago.<a href="http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/acupuncture.html" TARGET="_blank" [3]</a> Research has shown that acupuncture reduces nausea and vomiting after surgery and chemotherapy. It can also relieve pain.<a href="http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/acupuncture.html" TARGET="_blank" [3]</a> Article: The effect of acupuncture duration on analgesia and peripheral sensory.<a href="http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/acupuncture.html" TARGET="_blank" [3]</a> <a href="#top"><img alt="Back to Top" title="Back to Top" src="" style="border: 0px solid ; width: 72px; height: 14px;"></a> <a name="hdng2"></a>There is strong evidence from clinical trials that acupuncture relieves nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy (see Question 6 ). It is important that acupuncture treatment be given by a qualified practitioner who uses a new set of disposable (single-use) needles for each patient (see Question 7 Question 7 ). <a href="http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/pdq/cam/acupuncture" TARGET="_blank" [4]</a> Laboratory and animal studies of acupuncture for cancer treatment suggest acupuncture can reduce vomiting caused by chemotherapy and may help a person's immune system work better (see Question 5 Question 5 ).<a href="http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/pdq/cam/acupuncture" TARGET="_blank" [4]</a> Acupuncture has been used in China and other Asian countries for thousands of years as part of traditional Chinese medicine (see Question 2 Question 2 Question 2 Question 2 ).<a href="http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/pdq/cam/acupuncture" TARGET="_blank" [4]</a> Acupuncture has been used in the United States for about 200 years (see Question 2 ).<a href="http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/pdq/cam/acupuncture" TARGET="_blank" [4]</a> Acupuncture is used to treat many illnesses and ailments; however, it is mainly used to control pain, including cancer pain (see Question 2 ).<a href="http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/pdq/cam/acupuncture" TARGET="_blank" [4]</a> Acupuncture may work by causing physical responses in nerve cells, the pituitary gland, and parts of the brain (see Question 3 Question 3 ).<a href="http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/pdq/cam/acupuncture" TARGET="_blank" [4]</a> Most acupuncture research with cancer patients studies the use of acupuncture to relieve symptoms caused by cancer treatment (see Question 6 ).<a href="http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/pdq/cam/acupuncture" TARGET="_blank" [4]</a> The most acupuncture research on cancer has been done in China (see Question 6 Question 6 Question 6 Question 6 ).<a href="http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/pdq/cam/acupuncture" TARGET="_blank" [4]</a> <a href="#top"><img alt="Back to Top" title="Back to Top" src="" style="border: 0px solid ; width: 72px; height: 14px;"></a> <a name="hdng3"></a>The Board evaluates professional competency, investigates complaints, and enforces the standards of practice for the acupuncture profession. The Board regulates the educational, clinical and clean needle technique programs approved to teach the practice of acupuncture in this state. <a href="http://www.azacuboard.az.gov/" TARGET="_blank" [5]</a> Mission Statement The mission of the Acupuncture Board of Examiners is to protect the health, safety and welfare, and safety of the citizens of Arizona by regulating and maintaining standards of practice for acupuncture.<a href="http://www.azacuboard.az.gov/" TARGET="_blank" [5]</a> What We Do The Board licenses and regulates acupuncturists, certifies auricular acupuncturists for detoxification or substance abuse programs, acupuncture training and preceptorship training programs, continuing education programs and visiting professors.<a href="http://www.azacuboard.az.gov/" TARGET="_blank" [5]</a> The practice of acupuncture or the use of the title "licensed acupuncturist" within New York State requires licensure as an acupuncturist, unless otherwise exempt under the law. Licensed physicians and dentists may be certified to practice acupuncture in New York State, but the requirements and application process are different from those for licensure in acupuncture.<a href="http://www.op.nysed.gov/acupunlic.htm" TARGET="_blank" [6]</a> With a limited permit you may only work under the on-site supervision of a New York State licensed and currently registered acupuncturist or a New York State licensed and currently registered physician or dentist certified in acupuncture.<a href="http://www.op.nysed.gov/acupunlic.htm" TARGET="_blank" [6]</a> Satisfactory completion of an approved professional acupuncture program registered by the New York State Education Department as licensure qualifying or accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (ACAOM) or another accrediting agency accepted by the Department as a reliable authority, or the equivalent.<a href="http://www.op.nysed.gov/acupunlic.htm" TARGET="_blank" [6]</a> You must successfully complete the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine's (NCCAOM) Acupuncture, Foundations of Oriental Medicine and Point Location Modules examinations and the Clean Needle Technique course.<a href="http://www.op.nysed.gov/acupunlic.htm" TARGET="_blank" [6]</a> If you successfully completed NCCAOM's Acupuncture Written examination, Point Location examination, and Clean Needle Technique course prior to June 2004, you meet the examination requirement for licensure.<a href="http://www.op.nysed.gov/acupunlic.htm" TARGET="_blank" [6]</a> A limited permit allows an individual who has satisfied the education requirements for licensure in acupuncture to practice acupuncture under appropriate supervision while waiting to pass the licensing examination.<a href="http://www.op.nysed.gov/acupunlic.htm" TARGET="_blank" [6]</a> Physicians and dentists who seek certification to practice acupuncture should contact the Office of the Professions at 474-3817 ext. 560 for additional information.<a href="http://www.op.nysed.gov/acupunlic.htm" TARGET="_blank" [6]</a> <a href="#top"><img alt="Back to Top" title="Back to Top" src="" style="border: 0px solid ; width: 72px; height: 14px;"></a> <a name="sources"><a href="#" onclick="toggle_visibility('srcs'); return false;" title="Most Informative Documents, used in preparation of this report."> SELECTED SOURCES<image src="" alt="Most Informative Documents, used in preparation of this report."></a> 1. <a href="http://nccam.nih.gov/health/acupuncture/" TARGET="_blank">An Introduction to Acupuncture [NCCAM Health Information]</a> <a href="http://nccam.nih.gov/health/acupuncture/" TARGET="_blank">http://nccam.nih.gov/health/acupuncture/</a> 2. <a href="http://consensus.nih.gov/1997/1997Acupuncture107html.htm" TARGET="_blank">The National Institutes of Health (NIH) Consensus Development Program: Acupuncture</a> <a href="http://consensus.nih.gov/1997/1997Acupuncture107html.htm" TARGET="_blank">http://consensus.nih.gov/1997/1997Acupuncture107html.htm</a> 3. <a href="http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/acupuncture.html" TARGET="_blank">MedlinePlus: Acupuncture</a> <a href="http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/acupuncture.html" TARGET="_blank">http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/acupuncture.html</a> 4. <a href="http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/pdq/cam/acupuncture" TARGET="_blank">Acupuncture - National Cancer Institute</a> <a href="http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/pdq/cam/acupuncture" TARGET="_blank">http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/pdq/cam/acupuncture</a> 5. <a href="http://www.azacuboard.az.gov/" TARGET="_blank">Acupuncture Board of Examiners</a> <a href="http://www.azacuboard.az.gov/" TARGET="_blank">http://www.azacuboard.az.gov/</a> 6. <a href="http://www.op.nysed.gov/acupunlic.htm" TARGET="_blank">NYS Acupuncture - License Requirements</a> <a href="http://www.op.nysed.gov/acupunlic.htm" TARGET="_blank">http://www.op.nysed.gov/acupunlic.htm</a> <a href="#top"><img alt="Back to Top" title="Back to Top" src="" style="border: 0px solid ; width: 72px; height: 14px;"></a> <a name="advanced">Try digging deeper by doing research on a LARGER SET OF DOCUMENTS: <form name="theForm2" action="http://iresearch-reporter.com/demo" target="_blank" method="get" ><input name="query" height="21" size="55" maxlength="2048" title="Search2" type="text" value="Acupuncture site:.gov"><input alt="" name="Submit2" value="Submit" src="" title="Submit advanced request" align="center" height="21" type="image" width="77"></form> (Will open in a new window. Your browser must have JavaScript & Cookies enabled.) Automatically generated multi-source summary has been compiled basing on the fair use of snippets extracted from original articles, found through the Google web search.

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