As an natural form of alternative therapy, acupuncture has the following benefits:
- drug-free pain relief
- applied to a wide range of acute and chronic ailments
- deal with the underlying cause of disease and illness as well as the symptoms in Chinese medicine theory
- provides an holistic approach, linking body, mind and emotions
- assists in the prevention of recurrence as well as the maintenance of general well-being
The World Health Organisation lists a wide variety of diseases or disorders for which acupuncture therapy has been tested in controlled clinical trials:
The following list is based on recommendations from the World Health Organisation.(WHO)
Musculo-skeletal - lower back pain, joint sprains, muscle strain, sciatica, arthritis, sporting injuries, sports performance or enhancement.
Respiratory conditions - sinus problems, hay fever, common cold or flu, asthma, bronchitis.
Gastrointestinal disorders - constipation, diarrhoea, irritable bowel syndrome, nausea, haemorrhoids, heartburn and reflux.
Cardiovascular - angina, palpitations, high or low blood pressure.
Womens' Health - irregular or painful periods, some fertility disorders, premenstrual difficulties, menopausal symptoms.
Pregnancy - morning sickness, breech baby, heartburn, elevated blood pressure, oedema, lower back pain, preparation for labour.
Mens' Health - some fertility disorders, prostate problems, erectile dysfunction
Neurological - headaches including migraine, trigeminal neuralgia, shingles, meniere’s disease, tinnitus, Bell’s palsy, post-stroke syndrome, insomnia, excessive dreaming.
Metabolic disorders - chronic fatigue syndrome, adrenal insufficiency, hormonal irregularities.
Urological disorders - urinary tract infections, nocturia, bed wetting
Psychological disorders - post-traumatic stress, anxiety, depression, smoking/drug addiction.
Skin disorders - acne, psoriasis, eczema, scarring.