ACUPUNCTURE
26.10.2021

WHAT IS ACUPUNCTURE?

Acupuncture is a 'needle' formed from the words “acus” (needle) and “puncture” (penetration).

Acupuncture is a type of treatment in traditional Chinese medicine conducted by stimulating specific points of body with very thin special needles.

How does it affect?

Acupuncture has pain reduction, homeostasis, reproduction, harmonious, engine repairing and regeneration effects.

Who can apply?

Only medical doctors who have participated an acupuncture certificate program approved by Turkish Ministry of Health and obtained the certificate by completing such program successfully are allowed to apply acupuncture.

Types of acupuncture systems?

Needle Acupuncture

Laser Acupuncture

Electroacupuncture

Acupressure

Moxibation

How is acupuncture applied?

Acupuncture is applied to selected application points of patient’s body, using sterile with single use, stainless steel or gold or silver and hair-thin needles, preferably with patients lying in face up position. Most people report feeling minimal pain – so called “De-qi” sensation in traditional Chinese medicine – as the needle is inserted. Actually, this minimal pain is one of indications showing needle is applied to right point. Needles are kept in position approximately between 20-30 minutes. Patient may be stimulated by needle movement in short intervals during the treatment. Needles are removed at the end of the treatment.

 

Figure 1: A patient with low back pain who had acupuncture applied to the lumbar region

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Figure 2: Acupuncture application to “hegu” point which is an effective point in reducing pain

What are the side effects of acupuncture treatment?

Acupuncture is a treatment method with only few known side effects such as slight redness, pain and local infections may occur at the needle site.

Which diseases isacupuncture applied to treat?

It is applied in diseases that acupuncture is recommended by the World Health Organization as a treatment method.

Primarily, it is appliedin treatment of;

  • Back pain
  • Neck pain
  • Knee pain
  • Tennis elbow
  • Shoulder pain
  • Rheumatoid arthritis
  • Headache
  • Quit smoking
  • Weight control

How long does acupuncture treatment take?

Acupuncture treatment is applied once or twice weekly. Although, duration of the treatment depends on patient and disease, it varies between 6-10 sessions.

What should be considered before and after acupuncture treatment?

  • Before acupuncture treatment, patients should not be very hungry or full.
  • It is appropriate for patients to come with a companion.
  • After the treatment, it is recommended not to do heavy work, if possible.