What is acupuncture?

Acupuncture is one of the key practices of traditional Chinese medicine, it has been practised in China for over 5000 years. It involves inserting very thin needles through the skin at key points on the body. The needles are about the thickness of a human hair, so they do not hurt. Stimulating these points promotes the body’s natural healing capabilities and enhances its function. Acupuncture is considered a way to balance the flow of energy in the body. Energy called QI(chee) flows in pathways like rivers around the body when this energy is flowing freely the body is healthy and balanced.. A disruption in the flow of energy can create illness. The idea behind acupuncture is that stimulating these points with acupuncture needles relieves obstruction in the flow of energy, which enables the body to heal.

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In the western view acupuncture works by stimulating the central nervous system (the brain, spinal cord and muscles) to release chemicals called neurotransmitters and hormones. These chemicals dull pain, boost the immune system and regulate various body functions. It stimulates serotonin and endorphins which are the body’s natural pain killers and feel good hormones this explains why acupuncture is so effective at treating pain and why people relax deeply and even fall asleep during treatment.

The improved energy and biochemical balance produced by acupuncture results in stimulating the body’s natural healing abilities, and in promoting physical and emotional wellbeing. A wide range of conditions can be treated with acupuncture for example pain, fertility, anxiety.

Acupuncture and your health insurance

Paula is registered with the Acupuncture Foundation Professional Association (AFPA), so depending on your insurance policy and level of cover, you may be able to claim back some of the cost of treatment with most Irish insurance companies.