Acupuncture is an ancient form of holistic medicine that has been used by various Eastern cultures for over 5,000 years. Its practice is based on various Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) principles, the most prevalent of which is treating the body as a whole, taking into consideration the physical, mental, emotional and outside factors. Acupuncturists use the “needling technique” to restore the patient’s overall health by unblocking the patient’s flow of energy, or qi (pronounced "chi").
Unlike most Western physicians, acupuncturists do not simply focus on the physical aspect of the patient’s illness, but also on other factors that may be affecting their physical health. By looking at the body as an interconnected entity, an acupuncturist is able to locate the root cause of the problem and develop a treatment plan accordingly. In many cases, the physical ailments of a patient are directly related to emotional stress they may be experiencing.
Needling is the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the patient’s body and stimulating them for the purpose of unblocking the patient’s flow of energy. Once the patient’s qi is balanced, they are believed to be healthy. Although “needling” is the primary acupuncture treatment, acupuncturists may also incorporate herbology, yoga, Asian Bodywork Therapy (ABT) and other TCM modalities into the treatment plan in order to maintain the patient’s health.
Some of the benefits of acupuncture include relief of pain, migraines, allergies, stress and anxiety. In the recent years, acupuncture has been progressively integrated with Western medicine due to its various benefits and lack of negative side-effects. According to the U.S. Department of Defense, Acupuncture is used by all branches of the United States military to treat various conditions, including PTSD. As the field of holistic medicine, and in particular acupuncture, continues to grow in the United States, educated acupuncturists will be in demand.
Individuals interested in pursuing acupuncture can work in a variety of fields and settings, including establishing their own practice. Prior to being able to practice in the United States, individuals must complete an accredited acupuncture program such as the one offered at New York College of Health Professions. Their Graduate School of Oriental Medicine offers a 145-credit, nine-trimester Acupuncture Program. Graduates that successfully complete this program earn a Bachelor of Professional Studies/ Master of Science – Acupuncture degree. To learn more about the Acupuncture courses at New York College, visit http://www.nycollege.edu/academics/acupuncture-school.
