Acupuncture myths busted

There are numerous myths about acupuncture. Some of these are accurate, while others are ridiculous, and the others are only half true. As you continue reading, you will discover which ones are worth believing.

The first fallacy about acupuncture is that it is painful. This is not accurate because those who tried it reported only a minor prick, while others reported feeling nothing at all. There is no tissue damage when the needle is placed or withdrawn from the skin, and only in very rare situations is there bruising.

The second myth is that acupuncture can cause hepatitis or AIDS. This is only true if the needles used have not been sterilized. This will never happen in the United States since acupuncturists are required to use disposable needles; therefore, you are not at risk of contracting these two diseases.

Acupuncture is also used to relieve pain. This is only half the truth because this holistic strategy has been shown to help people quit smoking, lose weight, and prevent certain ailments.

Fourth, some people believe that Asians are the only ones who can practice acupuncture. Since 1982, there have been 50 schools around the country that teach this practice and prepare students to become registered acupuncturists.

This means that anyone who wants to learn about this historic discipline and help treat patients can do so. To give you an idea, there are currently at least 3,000 acupuncturists working in the United States.

Fifth, medical doctors are skeptical about alternative medicine's promise. This is not true since more doctors are becoming open to the idea that there are alternatives to mainstream medicine for treating patients. In fact, if they know that what they have done is ineffective, some of them will refer you to an acupuncturist.

Another common misconception is that every patient will be subjected to the four-needle method. This is not true, and it will only be utilized as a last resort if the specialist believes the patient's energy is nearly nonexistent.

The sixth myth is that acupuncture should be performed by a medical doctor. This is incorrect because the training is very different from what is taught in medical school. Acupuncturist license holders must complete 3,000 hours of training before they can practice their profession. So, if you have a choice between an acupuncturist and a medical practitioner, you should go with the latter.

The seventh myth is that acupuncture is only practiced in developing nations. This is not correct because this approach originated in China over 2000 years ago and has since extended to developed Asian nations such as Japan, South Korea, Singapore, and Malaysia.

Acupuncture has been practiced in the United States for more than two decades and is permitted in 30 states. In reality, 22 of them will become licensed professionals after passing the state board exams.

Despite the fact that acupuncture has been around for a long time, there is still a demand for this type of holistic treatment, which is why it is taught in colleges and used today. It is painless and inexpensive, and numerous studies have shown that it is beneficial for treating and preventing a variety of ailments.