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Benefits of Auricular Acupuncture

What Is Acupuncture

If you are looking for an alternative therapy to improve your health, than acupuncture is a great idea. Acupuncture is based on the principle that an ailment in the human body occurs due to an imbalance in the universal energy flowing through the body. An acupuncturist will first identify the lines of energy along your body. Then, by inserting needles at specific points along these lines of energy, the flow of energy is stimulated, which helps to correct the imbalance.

Acupuncture is almost two millennia old. This ancient therapeutic practice has its origins in Chinese medicine. Nevertheless, there is a relatively new type of acupuncture, auricular acupuncture, which is only 50 years old. Simply put, auricular acupuncture is ear acupuncture.

What Is Auricular Acupuncture

Auricular acupuncture is based on the idea that our body parts and functions are ‘mapped’ onto the external surface of the ear. Therefore, by poking different areas on the ear with acupuncture needles, the corresponding body parts and functions can be stimulated.

Treatment

The treatment usually begins with the acupuncturist asking for your complete medical history including any medical conditions, lifestyles, and habits. After this is complete, the acupuncturist assesses the health of the energy lines by probing the pulse points on your wrist. The diagnosis begins after all of the above is achieved.

An acupuncturist typically uses 6-12 needles in each session for the treatment. The treatment length varies from 20 to 45 minutes. If you experience excessive pain or discomfort during the treatment, you should notify the acupuncturist immediately. Although acupuncturists traditionally use needles, for those who have a fear of needles, there are several non-needle methods such as the use of laser, ultrasound and electronic stimuli.

Auricular acupuncture has been gaining significance in modern science as well. It is believed to effectively relieve headaches, body aches and sleep disturbances. Moreover, this form of treatment has been increasingly used in the US and UK to cure drug and alcohol addiction. It is further being used against degenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s and chronic conditions like asthma and diabetes. Auricular acupuncture has also proven to be effective against psychological problems such as anxiety and depression.

There are some risks associated with auricular acupuncture such as nerve injury, brain damage, etc. Since the needles used in acupuncture pierce the skin, it should be ensured that they are sterile. Therefore, make sure you go to a licensed practitioner. It is important to realize that auricular acupuncture should not be used in isolation. It is best to consult your physician before opting for a session. Don’t forget to eat healthy and exercise regularly.

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