Acupuncture and Acupressure

by Linda Wasmer Andrews

Acupuncture—the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the skin—is one of the oldest, most widely used medical procedures in the world. It has been part of traditional Chinese medicine for more than 2,000 years. Today it also is increasingly popular with medical patients in Western countries as a way to control pain and relieve certain other symptoms, such as the nausea caused by chemotherapy. Acupressure is a variation in which therapists press on acupuncture points with their fingers instead of using needles. Other therapists replace the needles with electrical impulses, heat, laser beams, sound waves, friction, suction, or magnets, but the goal is still to stimulate specific body points.

Needle points

Traditional Chinese medicine is based on the belief that health depends on a vital energy, called qi (pronounced "chee"), which is thought to flow through pathways in the body, called meridians. These meridians are like rivers that nourish the body, and an obstruction along one them is like a dam that blocks the natural flow of energy, creating pain and disease. Also important are the opposing forces of yin and yang, which, when balanced, are said to work together with qi to promote physical and mental wellness. The insertion of needles into precise points on the skin is believed to unblock energy flow, balance yin and yang, and restore health. There are more than 2,000 such acupuncture points on the body.

"Acupuncture is becoming increasingly popular with medical patients in Western countries as a way to control pain and relieve certain other symptoms, such as the nausea caused by chemotherapy."

Western scientists have found it hard to study meridians, since they don't exactly correspond to nerve or blood circulation pathways. As a result, some don't believe that meridians exist at all. Nevertheless, several studies have found that acupuncture used along with mainstream medicine can have real benefits, such as helping to relieve pain and reduce the nausea and vomiting of chemotherapy. One theory is that acupuncture stimulates the production of endorphins, chemicals in the body that are natural pain-relievers. However, there is no evidence that acupuncture alone is effective for treating or preventing cancer.

To qi or not to qi?

Many people fear that acupuncture itself will hurt, but, in fact, the procedure should cause little or no discomfort. The needles are hair-fine, and they usually are left in place for less than half an hour. Some acupuncturists twirl the needles or apply low-voltage electricity to them as a way to enhance the results. If you decide to try acupuncture, ask about the treatment procedure that will be used and the expected benefits. Also, make sure that the acupuncturist uses a new set of disposable, sterile needles for each session.

Sharp questions

In addition, always check the acupuncturist's credentials. Look for state licensing or national board certification. Steer clear of anyone who suggests you use acupuncture in place of standard medical treatment, rather than along with it. Acupressure often is performed by massage therapists rather than acupuncturists. Once again, look for an experienced, qualified practitioner who is state-licensed or board-certified.

Finally, ask about the estimated total cost, since acupuncture treatment often takes several sessions. The cost per session generally runs between $30 and $100, but it can be considerably more, especially if a physician performs it. Fortunately, some health insurance plans and HMOs now cover acupuncture and acupressure.

More resources

• Acupuncture and Oriental Medical Allianc
• This group can refer you to acupuncturists and Oriental medicine practitioners who are state-licensed or board-certified.
• American Academy of Medical Acupuncture - www.medicalacupuncture.org
• This organization can refer you to physicians (M.D.s or D.O.s) who practice acupuncture.
• American Massage Therapy Association - www.amtamassage.org
• This organization offers referrals to qualified massage therapists, including some who practice acupressure.
• National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine - http://nccam.nih.gov
• This center of the U.S. National Institutes of Health provides reliable information about acupuncture.
• SOURCES
• National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. Acupuncture information and resources. July 25, 2001.
• Available at: http://nccam.nih.gov/. American Cancer Society. Acupuncture. 
• Available at: www.cancer.org/eprise/main/docroot/ETO/content/ETO_5_3X_ Acupuncture. American Massage Therapy 
• Association. Available at: www.amtamassage.org Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine Alliance. Practitioner search. 
• Available at: www.healthy.net/asp/Associations/assocsearch.asp?AssocID=1. American Academy of Medical Acupuncture. Medical acupuncturist referral service.
• Available at: www.medicalacupuncture.org