Traditional Chinese Medicine: Exploring and Understanding Acupuncture
According to certain historians, acupuncture was devised before 2500 BCE in China, and by the 1950s, many research institutes were established across the country. Although acupuncture was slowly introduced into many countries at various points in time, today, its popularity has increased tremendously with the incorporation of their techniques and herbs in many hospitals worldwide. Nations like Korea and Japan have also assimilated acupuncture into their medical systems, but from Western countries, France was one of the initial countries to adopt and embrace this practice in their healthcare. The earliest known medical description of acupuncture was, in fact, written by a European physician, Ten Rhijne in 1680. This was followed by a number of notable publications in America and Britain. Singapore was initially introduced to acupuncture when early migrants came to the country from mainland China, and over the years, this complementary form of medicine has been accepted warmly by the public. A small percentage is still unaware of what acupuncture actually is and how it is performed. If this is something you can relate to, you are in the right place. This article will explore all that you need to know and understand about acupuncture in Singapore.
Role of Acupuncture in Singapore in Traditional Chinese Medicine
Being a fundamental component of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), acupuncture in Singapore is most commonly adopted for pain alleviation. Involving a series of thin injections being inserted into specific points of the body, it balances the flow of ‘Qi’ or energy to provide relief and maintain overall health and well-being.
TCM acupuncture, when inserted into the body, is believed to balance the flow of energy through meridians (energy channels), which stimulates sensory nerves, muscles, and connective tissues. But some TCM acupuncture experts believe that it works by producing a positive neurological effect – research studies are being carried out on this, and the exact findings are yet to be determined.
According to TCM practitioners, there are 361 points in the body through which acupuncture can be applied. Inserting needles into these locations in the appropriate combinations is thought to help restore the energy flow. According to a 2017 analysis of TCM acupuncture, it was observed that many acupuncture needles can be inserted into areas known as receptive fields, to trigger the activity of several sensory neurons. In addition, it can promote blood flow to specific areas of the body.
Acupuncture in Singapore can be carried out to address several health concerns, including headaches, neck and back pain, arthritis and knee pain, toothaches, labour pain, menstrual cramps, face pain or discomfort. Moreover, it can help manage immune system and fertility issues, strain disorders, cancer and its treatment side effects, as well as many sports injuries and other conditions.
Benefits of TCM Acupuncture in Singapore
Apart from pain alleviation, there are several benefits that come with using acupuncture therapy in Singapore. They are as follows:
Individualised treatment: TCM acupuncture practitioners do not use a one-strategy-fits-all approach when planning treatments. A tailored approach is more commonly embraced as a detailed assessment and evaluation of the patient is necessary to provide the ideal treatment plan to suit their requirements and goals. This may include an assessment of the patient’s medical history, presenting symptoms, and information about their diet and lifestyle.
Holistic approach: This is a key benefit of this alternative form of medicine, which considers the patient’s overall health instead of just focusing on one symptom. With this approach, patients can look forward to improving their overall health and addressing any underlying conditions they may have.
Enhanced immunity: TCM acupuncture comes with the ability to improve one’s immunity by promoting the flow of Qi, resulting in the stimulation of the body’s innate healing mechanisms. In addition, with it being a deeply relaxing and calming therapy, acupuncture can reduce stress and balance emotions.
As mentioned earlier, acupuncture plays an impactful role in pain treatment, but how does this work, and what methods do they use? Well, while TCM acupuncture can certainly help with pain alleviation, there is another crucial component in TCM known as ‘Tui na’. This specialised massage is designed to focus solely on reducing pain and discomfort. Tui na doesn’t just focus on relieving pain but also goes beyond that by targeting the root cause of the pain to provide relief. Tui na is performed by a combination of carefully selected oils and liquids to enhance healing. Along with this application, the manipulation of certain pressure points, as well as stretching and mobilisation, will ensure that pain and discomfort are eased with the promotion of blood flow. If you would like to know more information about the meridian tui na and their benefits, feel free to read the Chinese Medical Centre’s TCM meridian pain relief tui na post.
Get in Touch with Professional and Qualified TCM Acupuncture Practitioners in Singapore
Do not suffer alone in silence. Seek assistance and guidance from TCM experts in the country at the Chinese Medical Centre. With over 12 branches in the country, you will have access to a range of comprehensive treatments and services at their clinics. For more information, do not hesitate to browse their platform or get in touch with their friendly and committed team today!
