4 Different Alternatives to Traditional Acupuncture Treatment

People may not be aware that acupuncture did not solely stem from traditional Chinese medicine or TCM. Other countries such as Egypt, Japan and those in Central Europe have also developed terminologies, basis of diagnosis, charts, anatomy and principles relative to their own studies and research. You may be able to find treatment more effective by applying the right modality.

1. Moxibustion.
This is a technique incorporating a Chinese herb named Mugwort or Artemesia Vulgaris to apply heat to a specific acupuncture point. Moxa is commonly rolled into a stick similar to the size of a cigar, lit with a matchstick then held over certain areas of the body to alleviate different symptoms. To provide deeper heat penetration, Moxa may also be placed onto the handle of acupuncture needles. Moxibustion can treat arthritis and other body aches.

2. Cupping.
This is a technique wherein the acupuncturist uses a glass cup or bamboo jar that functions as suction on the body to be left for 5 to 15 minutes. Cupping can also be used in conjunction with electro-acupuncture to enhance its effects. The method greatly enhances circulation and relieves symptoms of swelling, back pain, neck pain, shoulder pain, colds and flu.

3. Electro-Acupuncture.

The approach involves the conduction of small electrical currents through acupuncture needles to reduce inflammation, reduce pain and enhance tissue healing. Electro-acupuncture is often used together with traditional acupuncture to treat swelling.

4. Tui Na.
This is the traditional Chinese massage or physical therapy that is usually applied together with traditional acupuncture to treat different musculo-skeletal conditions.

Varieties of Acupuncture.
a. TCM or Traditional Chinese Acupuncture. This is the most common and popular type of acupuncture. Patients are placed in a comfortable position then needles as thin as a hair strand are inserted at varying angles, points and depths to relieve different conditions and symptoms.

b. Japanese Style Acupuncture. This type is more subtle and stimulating than TCM using fewer and finer needles.

c. Korean Hand Acupuncture. The process only makes use of the hand instead of the whole body. Korean acupuncturists believe that there are points in the hand that correspond to every single part of the body and these can be stimulated to improve the overall condition of the person.