Acupuncture is a popular alternative medicine that is practiced by inserting thin needles into a patient’s body at specific points in order to improve health. Created in China thousands of years ago, acupuncture is practiced throughout the world, typically by licensed professionals. In the United States alone several million people use acupuncture each year. Traditionally, the needles were meant to re-balance a patient’s life force, or chi, by being placed in specific points on the body. Practitioners who are more inclined toward the Western school of medicine believe the needles stimulate nerves and muscles, enhancing the body’s innate painkillers. It is used to treat a number of illnesses, most notably to ease persistent pain.

The effectiveness of acupuncture is debated in the medical community, with unsatisfying results from studies and disbelief from a large group. It has been difficult to create studies that follow the scientific method, giving little indication as to the efficiency of the procedure as a legitimate medical practice or a placebo. The American Medical Association, United States National Institute of Health (NIH), and World Health Organization have all stated that there is need for further research to determine whether or not acupuncture is effective. A 2010 report by the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, a branch of the NIH, used neuroimaging technology in order to definitely discover its effects. Mapping the physiological reactions in the brain’s pain centers has revealed the successful nature of acupuncture in reducing pain. Studies have shown it to help sufferers of chronic back pain, tension headaches, arthritis, and carpal tunnel syndrome.

When going in for acupuncture treatments it is important that patients know what will be involved. A qualified practitioner can be found by referral of doctor or through a national database. When visiting the acupuncturist they will need a full medical history and any information pertinent to the condition for which the patient has gone to see them. Having the complete picture enables the acupuncturist to draw up a personalized method of treatment, meant to best serve the patient.

Reflexology, which can be applied to any body part, but is especially concentrated on the sensitive nerve endings located in the soles of the feet and in the hands, is a science based on the idea that gentle pressure on reflex points can produce certain results. The result aimed for is to increase health and harmony by promoting health in the organs which correspond to the reflex point being worked by the practitioner. The idea is that energetic pathways flow through and connect all the various parts which comprise the human body.

This might sound akin to a magic act, yet it’s not as esoteric as it may seem. The human brain is a giant electrical device – electricity flows through the inner working of the brain, controlling everything from hunger to fine motor skills. By applying pressure in a skillful and knowledgeable way, a reflexologist may influence the signals sent between the brain and the body, causing a realignment of the electrical pattern. This realignment can create a new balance which is soothing and reduces both pain and stress.

If you’re considering trying a reflexology treatment, your experience will be somewhat similar to going to the spa for a massage. You’ll bare your feet, but nothing else, then sit on a comfortable chair or table. The reflexologist will examine your feet, then begin several techniques to achieve the harmonic balance desired. You should not feel pain, only firm pressure. At the end of the treatment, a sense of relaxation coming over you will indicate that this alternative to traditional medicine has achieved a balance formerly non-existent in your body. Remember to thank the reflexologist if you are happy with the treatment,