What is Acupuncture
1. Origin
Acupuncture has evolved over millennia of clinical practice in China, representing a unique empirical medicine. Ancient Chinese physicians applied philosophical principles to understand human physiology, disease nature, and prognostication. Their insights were documented in ancient texts, which continue to serve as valuable resources for contemporary practitioners, ensuring the safe and effective application of acupuncture.
2. Regulation
The practice of acupuncture can yield either beneficial or adverse effects on patients, contingent upon accurate diagnosis and proper needling techniques. To safeguard public health, the British Columbia (BC) government initiated regulation of the profession in 2000 through the College of Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioners and Acupuncturists (CTCMA).
Aligned with China’s traditional framework, BC’s educational guidelines uphold rigorous standards, positioning the province’s TCM professionals among Canada’s elite.
3. Uniqueness
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) comprehends diseases through four syndromes: causes, general manifestations of “hot” or “cold,” affected regions, and the body’s overall resistance. BC acupuncturists are mandated by the CTCMA to diagnose syndromes and prescribe treatments accordingly.
4. TCM VS Acupuncture
TCM encompasses various modalities such as Chinese herbal medicine, acupuncture, tuina (Chinese massage), qi gong (meditation), and Tai Ji Quan (martial arts). Acupuncture and herbal medicine are specific treatments within TCM, which encompasses broader topics including physiology, pathology, and treatment principles rooted in traditional philosophies like qi, yin yang, and the five elements.
5. Earliest Acupuncture Book
Although acupuncture artifacts date back to the Neolithic Age, the theoretical foundation of TCM acupuncture is attributed to Dr. Huangfu Mi’s seminal work “Zhen Jiu Jia Yi Jing,” published in 282 AD. This comprehensive text laid the groundwork for acupuncture practice and theory.
6. Meridian and Collateral Theory
Unique to TCM acupuncture, the meridian and collateral theory describes a network of channels connecting various body parts to facilitate the flow of qi and blood. Acupuncture points along these channels regulate qi and blood flow, restoring balance. While Western medicine lacks a direct equivalent, acupuncture’s therapeutic effects may be attributed to its impact on the nervous system, stimulating neurotransmitter and hormone release.
7. Guidance by TCM Diagnosis
In addition to syndrome-based acupoint selection, acupuncturists consider factors like age, constitution, and overall health. TCM diagnosis includes tongue and pulse examination, physical symptoms assessment, and medical history inquiry, guiding personalized treatment plans addressing underlying causes.
8. Therapeutic Mechanisms
TCM acupuncture is believed to regulate the autonomic nervous system, balancing functions like heart rate and digestion. By enhancing the immune system, acupuncture aids in combating conditions like anxiety, insomnia, and digestive disorders.
9. Safety
Acupuncture should complement conventional medical care rather than substitute it for severe conditions. Seeking treatment from licensed acupuncturists ensures safety and appropriateness for individual conditions, emphasizing the importance of consultation before undergoing treatment.
