Acupuncture has been practiced for thousands of years as means of alternative medicine. This practice was first started in China, but has spread throughout the world. While the precise scientific reasoning behind why the practice is effective is not known, it is believed that it helps the release of pain-fighting chemicals. The carotid arteries, which serve as the main blood supply for the brain, are situated on the sides of the neck and head. Acupuncture performed near the carotid artery can help relieve headaches and dizziness. Acupuncture should not be used as a replacement for medical treatment. It should only serve as an additional method of treatment. Consult your doctor before pursuing acupuncture.
Theory of Acupuncture
The creators of acupuncture in China had a theory on why the practice was effective for relieving pain. They believed that the body was made up of two balanced forces, ying and yang. For a person to be healthy, they would need to have a balance between those two forces. Otherwise, an imbalance would block vital energy from reaching the meridians, which mean pathways. This would result in pain. So, their theory states that to correct this imbalance, acupuncture needs to be performed at specific points of the body.
Carotid Artery Procedure
During an acupuncture procedure, metallic, hair-thin needles are placed at the specific meridians near the area of pain. For example, if you have a headache, the needles would be placed in the carotid artery region at the sides of the neck. Although needles are being inserted into the skin and muscles, little to no pain should be felt. Also, acupuncture procedures are typically less than 30 minutes.
Numbing
A numbing sensation is often experienced while undergoing acupuncture. Chinese practitioners believe that if numbing is not experienced, then improper technique was likely being used. Despite that, a person could undergo an effective treatment without having numbing in the area being treated.
Warnings
To ensure that you receive the best possible treatment and for maximal safety, seek a qualified and experienced acupuncturist. An incompetent acupuncturist could place the needles in incorrect locations, which could make you feel more pain after the treatment than you did initially.
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