Acupuncture

Acupuncture for Multiple Sclerosis

Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese medical treatment. It has been around for about 2,500 years. (It must be working for someone. What do you think?)

It became popular in the US after President Nixon visited China in 1972. This historical event lead to a curiosity about the Chinese culture. This included its' medicine practices.

No one knows exactly how and why acupuncture works. The theory is that our health depends on the flow of energy, or chi, throughout our body.

The Chinese believe that through needle stimulation, the flow of chi can be improved. Circulation will improve. The organs will function better. As a result the body will be able to stay healthy.

These findings haven't been studied scientifically. But anything that helps the body to work well is a plus for people with MS in my book.

There is research to suggest that it can:

release endorphins in the brain
help with cell repair and renewal
regulate blood pressure (maybe I should try it)
reduce inflammation
stimulate nervous system
block pain receptors

It may also help with symptom relief in people with MS. It is not a cure for multiple sclerosis, however. Traditionally, the Chinese would pay their acupuncturist to keep them healthy.

Acupuncture can possibly help relieve symptoms of MS like the following:

pain
numbness
tingling
anxiety
dizziness
fatigue
spasticity
weakness
depression
bladder problems
bowel problems

There have been a few small studies where it has been helpful for people with MS. If you are brave enough and don't mind needles, then go for it. I can't see Cir ever suggesting a trip to the acupuncturist. He hates mosquitoes, so I doubt if long, skinny needles are anywhere in his future treatment.

Chinese or Japanese??

Here are a few differences between Chinese acupuncture and the way the Japanese practice it. This is by no means a complete list of the differences or types of techniques used.

Types

Needles

Insertion

Techniques

Japanese

Very fine

Painless, shallow or very light touch

Shinkan or guide tubes used (feel tube - not the needle)

Some individual techniques
Ippon hari
One Needle Acupuncture
Ryodoraku – Electrical stimulation of needles

Chinese

Slightly thicker, inserted by hand

Inserted until tingling, heat or dull aching sensation is felt (de qi)

Standard teaching and practice always adhered to

Western practitioners use a variety of techniques. These can include a mixture of Traditional Chinese and Japanese techniques. Westerners have developed new treatments also. One technique is called Trigger Point. Needles are inserted at certain points along the muscles. This technique is usually used to treat pain.

You need to do thorough research before scheduling your first appointment. Not only do you want to compare things like cost, but also safety practices. Call and find out what type of acupuncture they practice if it's not readily noticeable in their name or advertisement.

Make sure they use safe practices. Here in the US, acupuncturists have a one needle use police. This means they will dispose of needles after they use them.

If you don't like pain, Japanese techniques are subtle and gentle. They want their customers to come back. If Cir were to ever try this traditional Chinese medicine, this is the way he would probably go. As I said earlier, he is not a fan of needles.

Check out the video below. It talks about the basics of acupuncture and what you might expect at your first session.

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