How does acupuncture work?
Acupuncture has a long history in the United Kingdom, dating back to the early 1800s. The first recorded acupuncture treatment in the UK was given by a Dr. George Cheyne in 1707, but it wasn't until the early 1800s that acupuncture began to gain widespread popularity in the country.
During this time, a number of British medical practitioners began to study and practice acupuncture, and the first acupuncture society, the British Acupuncture Society, was established in 1950.
In the 1970s and 1980s, acupuncture experienced a resurgence in popularity in the UK. This was partly due to a growing interest in alternative forms of medicine, as well as increased recognition of acupuncture's effectiveness in treating certain conditions.
In the 1990s, acupuncture began to be integrated into the National Health Service (NHS), and now it is widely available in the UK. The British Medical Acupuncture Society (BMAS) was formed in 1980 by a group of medical doctors who recognized the benefits of acupuncture. BMAS is the leading professional body for doctors trained in Western medical acupuncture in the UK.
Acupuncture is now recognized as a complementary therapy by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) and is recommended for the treatment of chronic lower back pain, headaches, and migraines among other conditions.
Acupuncture stimulates the body to produce natural chemicals called endorphins, which are responsible for pain relief and the feeling of well-being. It also improves blood circulation and decreases inflammation, which can improve the healing process.
Acupuncture is considered a safe and effective treatment option for a wide range of conditions, including chronic pain, stress, infertility, and even mental health conditions like anxiety and depression.
It's worth noting that acupuncture should not be used as a standalone treatment and should be used in conjunction with other forms of healthcare. It's important to consult with a healthcare professional and licensed Chinese acupuncturist to determine the best treatment plan for you.
