In Naples as in other parts of the country, Acupuncture has become increasingly popular for treating insomnia, pain, and other conditions, hence numerous myths are perpetuated. We shall address common acupuncture myths you may hear and the facts behind them.
Will Acupuncture hurt?
Most people think of pain each time something is associated with needles. So they think Acupuncture must hurt. However, the needles used are extremely small. It may feel like you have been bitten by a mosquito upon insertion, but the sensation is transitory. Once the needle is in its place, you are likely not to feel anything at all.
Your acupuncturist wants you to stop visiting your regular doctor. (Myth)
Your Naples acupuncturist believes that Western medicine is often necessary and effective. He or she will work with your physician to come up with a comprehensive health plan specifically designed for you. Some patients do replace Western medicine with acupuncture while others will complement it with Western medicine to make it more effective.
Acupuncture has no scientific basis. (Myth)
Acupuncture is over 5,000 years old. This is a much older form of medicine than Western medicine. Many recent studies have shown how some progressive hospitals offer various acupuncture services. The World Health Organization also recognizes acupuncture as one of the valid treatment methods for different health conditions.
Acupuncture only cures pain. (Myth)
It is true that acupuncture will relieve different kinds of body pain like neck, knee and back pain. But, it can also be used to treat internal health issues, including digestive orders, headaches, constipation, diarrhea, fertility, women’s health, acne and much more.
Will you always need acupuncture after your first session? (Myth)
This is not true. Some patients even get better after three sessions. But if you have chronic pain conditions that have been going on for a long time, the condition cannot be corrected in one session. Just like healthy eating, or training for any sport, the acupuncture results are cumulative. Your body will take a while to adjust to the changes.
Acupuncture works magic.
Although this practice will significantly improve your health when used correctly as performed by a licensed practitioner; its efficacy can be limited if not used with a healthy lifestyle. Patients are always advised to follow the prescribed lifestyle and dietary modifications religiously. This can include exercising regularly, eating a balanced diet, and including other activities that can lessen the negative effects of stress like tai chi, yoga or massage.
Acupuncture isn’t sterile. (Myth)
Other than the pain associated with needles, sometimes people are concerned about the sterility of the needles. Will the needles transfer illnesses from one person to the other? Your Naples acupuncturist will use single-use, individually packaged, sterilized and disposable needles for each patient. All the needles are properly disposed of just like the ones in hospitals. The infection risk from acupuncture is very low since the needles are only used once and then disposed of.
Acupuncture will promote self-healing and your long-term well-being. It might not be a solution for all the ailments in life, but separating the facts from fiction will help you understand how effective it is.