Acupuncture is a form of traditional Chinese medicine that has been practiced for centuries.
It involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body to relieve pain or treat other health conditions.
Here are ten fun facts about acupuncture:
1. Acupuncture is one of the oldest forms of healthcare in the world. It dates back over 2,000 years and is still used today by millions of people around the globe.
2. The word “acupuncture” comes from the Latin acus (needle) and pungere (to prick).
3. There are over 2,000 different acupuncture points on the human body. These points are located along what are known as meridians or energy pathways.
4. Acupuncture needles are made of stainless steel and are extremely thin. Needles used in acupuncture are much thinner than those used for injections or blood tests – they are usually just a few millimetres thick.
5. Contrary to popular belief, acupuncture is not always painful. Some people report feeling a slight tingling sensation when the needles are inserted, but this quickly goes away. Others don’t feel anything at all.
6. Acupuncture needles are inserted into the skin about 1/4 to 1/2 inch deep.
7. Acupuncture can be used to treat a wide variety of health concerns, including headaches, migraines, anxiety, depression, insomnia and chronic pain syndromes like fibromyalgia and arthritis.
8. Studies have shown that it can also be effective for treating nausea associated with chemotherapy and postoperative pain.
9. Acupuncture is said to help improve overall wellbeing.
10. Acupuncture is safe and effective. In 2003, the World Health Organisation published a review of acupuncture. In it, researchers praised the treatment for healing over 200 symptoms and health conditions.
