Five Misconceptions about Acupuncture
From digestion and libido to headaches and chemotherapy, acupuncture has been known to help a plethora of ailments. However, there are numerous misconceptions about acupuncture and its effectiveness. Dr. Edward Lamadrid, DAOM, L. Ac., LMT notes, “Many people don’t understand the science and benefits behind acupuncture, but I have patients that swear by its effectiveness. Done correctly by a licensed professional, acupuncture can have amazing benefits, like reduced healing time after surgery, digestion aid, and reduced side effects of chemotherapy and radiation, among other things.” Five misconceptions of acupuncture include:
* Acupuncture is painful: Acupuncture can actually be very relaxing. Some report a tingling or numbness. A sense of deep heaviness or numbness indicates that the treatment is working.
* Acupuncture is ineffective: Acupuncture treats a plethora of ailments, anything from losing weight and libido issues to headaches and digestion problems. [It's been noted that placebos do not work on animals, yet acupuncture does work. Acupuncture used in conjunction with other treatments or medications can be extremely effective.].
* Acupuncture Needles Aren’t Safe: Acupuncture is always performed with disposable needles in a clean and sterile environment. Acupuncture needles have been approved by the FDA and are only used once, then disposed of. It’s always important to go to a trusted licensed acupuncturist when
undergoing this type of treatment.
* Acupuncture is a Placebo: Despite the fact that acupuncture has proven results, even if it is the placebo effect kicking in, who cares? The body’s most powerful healing organ is the brain, and it is estimated that the placebo effect works 30 percent of the time.
* Acupuncture is Only Good for Pain: Acupuncture has been known to aid in depression and emotional issues as well as digestion difficulties.
About Dr. Edward Lamadrid: He is a doctor of acupuncture and oriental medicine (DAOM) and the founder of Integrative Health Studio in downtown Chicago. Dr. Lamadrid is a pioneer who has devoted over three decades to studying all forms of complementary and alternative medicine. He is one of approximately one hundred DAOMs in the country. His practice is located in downtown Chicago. He is also the campus director and professor at Pacific College of Oriental Medicine.
One Response to Five Misconceptions about Acupuncture
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Great article! I’ve recently tried acupuncture and I love it! I’ve recently turned over a new leaf and am trying to do everything as naturally as possible. I found a great book doing some research, A Beautiful Medicine by David Mercier, an acupuncturist. The subtitle is “A Radical Look at the Essence of Health and Healing” and it’s so true, it’s really changed my perspective and I’m learning and understanding more about taking control of my own health. I’m totally incorporating acupuncture into my personal health care plan. If any other readers are interested in the book they can find out more here: http://www.abeautifulmedicine.com. I’d love to hear your thoughts!