By Christina Captain, DOM, AP
Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine
What is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture, a single modality in the ancient medical model
of Oriental Medicine is considered to be between 4,000
and 6,000
years old. The world health organization recognizes over 43
common disorders that Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine
can effectively
treat. Respiratory disorders such as Asthma and allergies,
musculoskeletal disorders such as joint pain and arthritis,
gastrointestinal
disorders such as acid reflux and irritable bowel syndrome,
gynecological disorders such as painful menstruation
and menopausal symptoms,
uritogenital disorders such as incontinence and sexual dysfunction,
psychological disorders such as depression, skin disorders,
endocrine disorders and complimentary treatment to chemo
and radiation
therapies. This list only represents some of the disorders
that can be effectively treated with Acupuncture and
Oriental Medicine.
How does Acupuncture work?
One aspect of Traditional Chinese Medical theory on which
acupuncture is based, is the theory of qi (chi) and meridians.
Qi is the
vital substance that animates the human body and keeps all
of its systems and organs functioning properly. Qi must be
in ample
supply and must flow smoothly without obstruction through
the meridians. Meridians are pathways that the qi flows through.
Each meridian is connected to an organ and has several branches
throughout the body. Imagine that these meridians were streams
off of a larger river and that the water flowing through
the
streams is actually the qi flowing through the meridian pathways.
Imagine that the trees lining the banks of the streams fell
and blocked the flow of the water through the stream. If
we think
of this as the qi being blocked then we have a stagnation
or stoppage of the flow of qi. This stagnation of qi translates
into pain or organ system dysfunction.
Acupuncture and herbs allow us to manipulate the flow of
qi in the body thus relieving pain and restoring organ system
dysfunction.
For example if you have an injury to your neck in a car accident
and it results in pain then theoretically the qi in your
neck is blocked and an acupuncture treatment should help
to relieve
the pain by restoring the smooth flow of qi.
Another
aspect of Contemporary Chinese Medicine is the thought that
qi and meridian theory is not as important as the theory
that acupuncture works based on a series of responses by
the nervous and vascular systems of the body. In his book
the Dao
of Chinese Medicine Dr. D. Kendall expertly parallels Eastern
and Western systems creating a contemporary and controversial
model of Oriental Medicine. This theory is more easily
accepted by the Western science community however completely
degrades
the more traditional model. It is my opinion that we cannot
dismiss one theory for another rather we must unite the
two and continue
pressing forward for mainstream acceptance. We must continue
to strive for additional research and integration in order
to create the most understanding for academia, the medical
community
as well as the patient.
What are the Credentials of Acupuncture Physicians?
In the state of Florida Acupuncture physicians are required
to complete a 5 academic year course of study after meeting
the
mandatory prerequisites for acceptance. After completing
the required didactic and clinical coursework a national
board
examination test must be passed and malpractice insurance
obtained before
a license will be issued. Chapter 457 of the Florida
code describes acupuncture physicians as primary care practitioners
who are
able to order and utilize laboratory testing. Acupuncture
physicians are regulated under the same federal laws
and
rules in regard
to the healthcare privacy act.
Who has received acupuncture?
Nearly one in ten adults (approximately 20 million people)
in the United States has received acupuncture and sixty
percent say they would readily consider acupuncture
as a treatment
option,
according to the findings of a national survey by the
National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and
Oriental Medicine.
Nearly half (48%) of the individuals surveyed who had
received acupuncture reported that they were extremely
satisfied
or very satisfied with their treatment, and only
eighteen percent
of
respondents reported being not very satisfied or
not at all satisfied with their treatment.
Why Not?
The truth is you miss all the shots you do not attempt
to make. So why not give Acupuncture a try, there
really is
nothing
to lose. Seek out qualified licensed practitioners
and give complimentary
medicine a try. NCCAOM.org is the national crediting
body for Acupuncture Physicians. Log onto their
website to find
a board
certified practitioner in your area.
Christina Captain, DOM, AP, is a doctor of oriental medicine
and the owner of the Family Healing Center. Her clinic
is located in
Sarasota
at 1219
East Avenue South, Suite 104. Please call 941-951-1119 or visit
www.familyhealingcntr.com. |
