Demystifying Acupuncture Myths

Have you heard about acupuncture? Do you think acupuncture could help you manage an underlying condition? Are you interested in learning more about the benefits of acupuncture? If so, we’ve got you covered.

Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese technique used to alleviate pain, prevent disease and promote overall well-being. It works by using sterile needles to stimulate certain parts of the body. These needles are inserted into acupuncture points associated with reducing pain.

Have you heard of a friend or colleague that has undergone the procedure? In recent years, acupuncture has risen in popularity, however, the practice is actually very old. In fact, it is more than 2000 years old.

Due to its sudden rise to stardom, several myths have come to be associated with acupuncture. The health professionals at Park Place Clinic discuss the three most talked-about myths; what is fact and, what is fiction. Read on to learn more.

Myth 1: Acupuncture Is Painful

It’s natural to think the needles used during the acupuncture process are painful; however, this couldn’t be further from the truth. The needles used are very thin. Thinner than the width of a strand of hair. You may feel a slight pinch or heaviness as the needles are first placed, but this feeling soon dissipates. What follows is a holistic sense of calm and peace with the alleviation of any discomfort or pain. In fact, acupuncture can be so relaxing that patients often fall asleep during the session.

Myth 2: Acupuncture Has Many Side Effects

Many people believe acupuncture has a large number of side effects. Fortunately, this is not true.

The risks and side effects associated with the technique are very low. They are even lower if your acupuncturist is a licensed, certified practitioner and uses high-quality sterile needles. Having an experienced acupuncturist will further reduce the side effects associated with the procedure.

Having said that, acupuncture, like any procedure, can have some side effects. Common adverse effects include muscle soreness, light bleeding, and slight bruising. Some patients may also experience fatigue and lightheadedness. Luckily though, these effects are short-lived and usually resolve spontaneously.

The benefits of acupuncture far outweigh the minimal risk of side effects associated with it. In addition to managing pain, some acupuncture benefits are; successfully managing headaches, depression, stress, and anxiety.

Furthermore, acupuncture has also proven to be helpful in a number of neurological and gastrointestinal conditions; patients with Parkinson’s disease, brain injuries, arthritis, and irritable bowel syndrome have reported benefits from using the procedure.

Myth 3: Becoming An Acupuncturist Requires No training

Becoming an acupuncturist is no different than becoming a lawyer or a doctor or any other professional. The path involves multiple and intensive years of graduate school followed by repeated licensing exams.

Aspiring acupuncturists study subjects such as Asian Bodywork, Western Medicine and practice management, to name a few. In addition to the gruelling curriculum, they also have to acquire several clinic hours to get hands-on practice.

Even after their degrees are complete, acupuncturists are required to attend classes and continue their education regularly. They also have to pass multiple National Board Licensure Exams.

Put simply, acupuncturists are well-trained professionals who undergo years of practice and obtain and upgrade certifications as required to perform their skills safely.

Ready For An Acupuncture Session?

Curious? Has all this talk about acupuncture and its benefits made you want to schedule a session? You’re not alone. As mentioned, for a gratifying and enjoyable session, you’ll want to visit an acupuncturist that not only has all the necessary certifications, but also years of experience.

Park Place Clinic offers a range of expertly-trained, fully-qualified, experienced acupuncturists.

Call (604) 646-6699 or visit our website to book your appointment today!