History / General information

Acupuncture is a treatment procedure of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), originating from the Far East, and has been known for several millennia. It is based on the concept of balanced conditions between the 5 elements (wood, fire, water, earth, metal) and the balance between yin and yang. According to this theory, functional disorders in the body are due to imbalances. Acupuncture helps to restore the balance so that Qi – which is the body’s energy – can flow unobstructed within the body.

Treatment

By the use of very thin needles which are pierced at specific points in the body, imbalances in the body (such as pain) are eliminated/regulated so that the body is able to function smoothly (i.e. without pain) again. These points of acupuncture are connected with each other through pathways – so-called meridians.

How does acupuncture work?

It functions at several levels:

• through neural reflex circuits
• by releasing messenger substances
• on blood circulation
• on the muscles
• through the immune system

Examples of treatment

Various states of pain in the postural system and the locomotor apparatus constitute a large part of the applications of acupuncture: For instance:

• Headache Neck pain
• Back pain
• Persistent pain after injuries

In the above mentioned settings acupuncture may at least serve as a supportive measure and, if desired, be combined with other conservative treatments such as chiropractic therapy.