Nahaufnahme eines Stethoskops auf einem Blatt Papier

General Information

What is Acupuncture and What Can it Treat?

As a natural pain therapy, acupuncture can treat many complaints and is proven to have a positive effect on the psyche due to its calming effect.

The term acupuncture is made up of the Latin words acus (needle) and pungere (prick), so it is a form of treatment in which the body's own regulatory mechanisms are stimulated and restored through the targeted stimulation of clearly defined points in the body using fine acupuncture needles.

Rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), acupuncture is also recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO) as an effective method and has a wide range of applications. The WHO list of indications for acupuncture includes, among others:

Acute and chronic pain of various types
Pain and functional disorders of the musculoskeletal system
Allergies
Skin disorders
Headache
Migrane
Urological disorders
Gynecological disorders
ENT diseases (rhinitis, sinusitis, tinnitus etc.)
Functional disturbances
Vegetative complaints
Psychosomatic illnesses
Burn Out
Addictive disorders
Quit smoking
Insomnia

Details about the Process

Acupuncture Treatment

In an acupuncture treatment, both near and distant points are considered, i.e. points that lie in or in close proximity to the primary pain region as well as those that are distant from it—on the opposite arm or leg, for example.

In the area of the puncture site, you may experience a feeling of heaviness or pressure or the feeling of a slight "electrification" may develop. This so-called "De Qi"-sensation is desirable and indicates a good therapeutic effect of the corresponding point.

During the actual acupuncture session, the patient usually lies relaxed and comfortable. The insertion of the individual needles can be felt as painful for a brief moment ("De Qi"-sensation), but after a short time the patient usually only feels a tingling or a feeling of warmth.

Often, a very pleasant feeling of relaxation develops. The needles remain in the corresponding points for approximately 30 minutes to develop their therapeutic effect, during which time the patient can relax.

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Applications

Specific use-cases for acupuncture

Among acupuncture's most common use-cases are the treatment of chronic conditions such as migraines, lower back pain, and osteoarthritis. Additionally, acupuncture is frequently employed to address stress, anxiety, and insomnia, offering a natural alternative for emotional and psychological support. Read any of the articles below to learn more about the diverse complaints acupuncture can help with:

Pain Management