Acupuncturist

An acupuncturist is a healthcare worker who treats patients using acupuncture and other holistic therapies. Acupuncture is a form of Traditional Chinese Medicine although the name comes from the Latin words Acus (needle) and Pungere (to prick). The practice of acupuncture goes back thousands of years. The acupuncture practitioners of today are fully licensed complementary healthcare professionals often working side by side with traditional medical doctors.

Acupuncturist

Acupuncturist Theory

Acupuncture is a therapy designed to restore balanced chi/qi energy to the body. Fine needles are inserted into the body at specific places called acupuncture points. The majority of these points lie on defined pathways called acupuncture meridians or energy meridians. These pathways are the chi/qi equivalent to the circulatory system. Instead of distributing blood, they distribute life energy throughout the body. Disease and injury cause disruptions and imbalances in this vital life energy. Acupuncture seeks to correct proper chi/qi flow and balance, creating optimum health.

Acupuncturist Information

In the United States, a acupuncture practitioner must be licensed in order to practice. Once licensed, they can use the title, L.Ac. after their name to signify they are a licensed acupuncturist. Other titles are commonly used to signify accreditation or advanced degrees. There are many medical professionals who practice acupuncture, including chiropractors, physicians, Doctors of Oriental Medicine, and some types of therapists. Of course, there are also dedicated acupuncture providers who concentrate specifically on this one therapy.

Recommendation on Acupuncture

I am friendly with a number of acupuncture professionals. I have studied the Chinese energy system in great detail in my martial arts training. I do not practice acupuncture, but I am well versed in simple acupressure applications for healing and advanced acupressure for self defense. I have learned much from practitioners in this interesting and specialized field.

Most acupuncture providers are well educated and incredibly knowledgeable professionals who can assist in providing care for almost any type of health complaint. Acupuncture is a holistic method that seeks to create a condition of vigorous general health rather than simply treating disease. This is a big plus both in the theory and practical application of therapy. I recommend trying acupuncture as part of a combined care plan for back pain or almost any other medical condition.
Acupuncturist to Back Pain Home page 2/17/07 Revised 6/12/08