Acupuncture

What is Acupuncture ?

Acupuncture is a complementary therapy that involves inserting needles into the skin of patients in an effort to relieve pain and to enhance health. The word acupuncture means needle piercing. Acupuncturists insert very fine needles into particular areas of the body in an attempt to stimulate acupuncture points, or acupoints. The aim is to improve the flow and distribution of vital energy within its pathways that are known as meridians.

Acupuncture originated in China however it is widely used in western medicine circles, including Ireland, as a complementary therapy. It is based upon the belief that life energy known as chi permeates all of the organs and tissues of the body. This energy or chi travels along invisible pathways, known as meridians, and controls all aspects of human physical and psychological processes. If this energy becomes blocked or unbalanced then illness can follow. Acupuncture works by tapping to to these energy meridians and restoring balance to the flow of chi.

What Happens During an Acupuncture Session ?

On your first visit to an acupuncturist you will be examined to evaluate your general level of health and to determine the appropriate therapy to be applied. The acupuncturist will ask about any symptoms or difficulties that you are experiencing, your medical background, dietary habits, sleeping habits and any other treatments that you have undergone. It is likely that your acupuncturist will take your pulse and examine your tongue for colour and any coating that might exist.

These preliminary inquiries and examinations permits the acupuncturist to determine which meridians, or energy pathways, should be focussed upon and addressed. The therapist will then insert the acupuncture needles into the appropriate - depending on your condition - acupoints. The needles are very fine and patients should not experience any significant discomfort although some people report mild tingling or a very dull pain. The acupuncture needles may be left in place for up to 30 minutes. Some practitioners may add extra stimulation by twirling the needles or by sending a mild electrical current through the needles.

What Medical Conditions can Acupuncture Treat ?

Acupuncture can be used to treat a wide range of medical conditions. It is believed that when needles are applied to the relevant acupuncture points this makes the body release endorphins that promote healing and well-being.

Acupuncture is not a cure-all complementary therapy however it is used to treat many conditions including the following:

• Psychological conditions such as stress, anxiety and depression
• Joint and muscle conditions such as back pain, frozen shoulder, arthritis and rheumatism
• Headache and Migraine
• Respiratory issues including asthma and hay fever
• High blood pressure
• Menstrual pains
• Dermatological problems including acne
• Pain relief during childbirth
• Sleeping problems
• Addictions including nicotine alcohol and drugs

How Many Acupuncture Treatments are Needed ?

This depends upon the condition being treated and on the responsiveness of the individual being treated by this complementary therapy. Your acupuncturist will assess this after each treatment however some people respond very quickly while others may require treatment over a number of months.

Recommended Acupuncturist

Clontarf Acupuncturist - Mari Roddy
Phone: (01) 818 6705

Irish Representative Body for Acupuncture

The main representative bodies for Acupuncture in Ireland are The Acupuncture Council of Ireland, TCMCI Ltd. and the Acupuncture Foundation Professional Association (AFPA). Contact details are as follows: