When most people think of needles, they think of vaccinations or drawing blood. However, there is another type of needle that is used for healing ailments in the body. This needle is used by a registered acupuncturist.
Acupuncturists are trained medical professionals who specialize in acupuncture, a practice originating from traditional Chinese medicine. The practice involves inserting thin needles into specific points of the body to treat various conditions.
To become a registered acupuncturist, one must first complete a comprehensive and extensive education and training program. This program focuses on teaching the fundamentals of acupuncture, anatomy and physiology, and traditional Chinese medicine.
During this training, students learn how to properly insert needles into the body and how to locate acupoints, which are the specific points on the body where needles are inserted. They also learn about the many disorders and conditions that can be treated with acupuncture, including chronic pain, migraine headaches, and digestive disorders.
Once the training has been completed, the acupuncturist must pass a certification exam administered by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine NCCAOM. This exam tests the acupuncturist’s knowledge of the principles of acupuncture and traditional Chinese medicine.
In addition to passing the certification exam, a registered acupuncturist must also comply with state and local licensing requirements. These requirements vary by state, but typically involve completing continuing education courses and maintaining a current CPR certification.
So, what happens during an acupuncture session with a registered acupuncturist? Firstly, the acupuncturist will ask the patient about their medical history and the reason for seeking acupuncture treatment. This initial consultation is important, as it helps the acupuncturist understand the patient’s condition and formulate a treatment plan.
During the acupuncture treatment, the patient will lie down on a table while the acupuncturist inserts needles at specific points on the body. The needles are very thin and most people experience very little discomfort during their insertion. The needles are usually left in place for around 20 to 30 minutes. During this time, the patient will be encouraged to relax and rest.
Many people report feeling relaxed and calm during and after an acupuncture session. This is because acupuncture helps to release endorphins – the body’s natural pain-killing chemicals – and helps to balance the body’s energy.
The number of acupuncture treatments required will vary depending on the patient’s condition. Chronic conditions may require a series of treatments over several weeks or months. Acute conditions, such as a migraine headache, may only require one or two treatments.
Acupuncture has been used for thousands of years to treat a variety of conditions, from physical pain to mental health issues. It is a safe and effective treatment option for many people. However, it is important to choose a registered acupuncturist who has completed the necessary education and training to ensure that treatment is safe and effective.
Acupuncture is a traditional form of medicine that is still used today by registered acupuncturists. It involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body to treat various conditions. Acupuncturists are trained medical professionals who have completed an extensive education and training program and have passed a certification exam. Patients who seek out acupuncture treatment can benefit from a safe and effective alternative to traditional medicine.
