1. Using Acupuncture to Work with HIV Care
Acupuncture is type of alternative medicine that works with the Qi or "energy of life". It is often used in conjunction with other modalities of treatment, which may be radically difficult or harsh on the person because the treatment is so very severe. The basis of this therapy is the gaining of balance (Qi) by moving the Qi around using very thin, small needles, which are made of stainless steel and are strong and flexible. They can be from 1/2 inches to 6 inches in length, and the tip is rounded. The idea behind this whole concept is that the needle is used to access places in the body where the Qi (balance) has been collected, known as the acupuncture site.
2. How the Qi Rules
Oriental medicine has as its core the simple concept that the Qi is in all tissues and that it moves around all over the body. When there is an imbalance, the results are disease and illness. The pathway in which the Qi travels is called meridians, and it is believed that these pathways go through connective tissue fascia, which has an area of low electromagnetic resistance. The places where these pathways pool are the places that are the acupuncture points, where the acupuncturist go to for needle insertion.
3. Acupuncture and its Benefit for HIV Patients
Acupuncture has been used by people infected with HIV for many years. It has the ability to enhance immune responses, help with medication side effects and assist in the process of alcohol and drug addiction. The appeal of acupuncture to those with HIV was that when the antiviral medications and other prophylactic medications make the body feel run down, weak and useless, there is a need to find something that could help to increase the strength and resiliency greater. It is also being applied to help relieve the pain and effects of peripheral neuropathy, as well as to help reduce digestive problems and address imbalances in fat.
4. Finding the Right Acupuncturist
Finding the right acupuncturist is very important if you have HIV. You can begin by going to your community-based AIDS hotline that may be able to help with referrals. It helps if the practitioner has a good working knowledge of the pathophysiciology of HIV and its associated symptoms and medication side effects because of having HIV.
5. Brain Chemicals
Undergoing acupuncture has been shown to have a positive effect on the brain and prompts the release of endorphins, which are the chemicals that are responsible for reducing pain and enhancing restfulness. The also have the added benefit of causing the immune system to work better thereby helping the body to fight off infection. Many HIV patients experience at least the benefit of a greater sense of well-being and better thought process.
