The roots of acupuncture appear to be shrouded in ancient history. Researchers have uncovered evidence suggesting that early humans utilized sharp bones for medicinal purposes dating back to the Stone Age. The contemporary practice of acupuncture draws from the traditions of Chinese Taoism, a philosophy with a history extending over 8,000 years. Nevertheless, the earliest documented reference to the use of acupuncture in more recent times can be found in the ‘Nei Jing’ – The Yellow Emperor’s Classic of Internal Medicine. This text documents a dialogue between the Emperor (Huang Di, also recognized as The Yellow Emperor, who reigned from 2697 to 2597) where various facets of Chinese medical practices are explored.
Today, acupuncture is the subject of intense medical study – and research indicates that it is effective in the treatment of a variety of conditions, especially where chronic pain and swelling are present. The fact that acupuncture does not rely on the sometimes-toxic chemicals that are found in Western medicines has also made it increasingly popular with those who are seeking alternative (yet complimentary) treatment to modern medical interventions.
However, if you are a resident in Fort Lauderdale and are considering acupuncture is an alternative to Western approaches to health and wellbeing what should you be looking for to ensure that you will be receiving the best care possible?
Firstly, there is a matter of certification. Florida requires that acupuncturists be licensed by the Florida Board of Acupuncture. This licensing provides the patient with the peace-of-mind of knowing that the practitioner will have undergone extensive training in not only the practice of acupuncture – but also of the ethics that surround its practice. patients should ask to see the licensing before undergoing treatment.
Then there is the matter of first impressions – they can provide valuable insight as to whether the practitioner has a professional attitude towards their practice – and has the welfare of the patient at top of mind. A treatment room should be clean, tidy, and orderly. Items that are required during treatment (for distance alcohol swabs) should be neatly stored. ‘Sharps’ disposal containers should be in evidence.
Patient interaction is extremely important. A great acupuncturist will spend significant amounts of time with the patient before the insertion of that first needle. They will want to know about lifestyle, exiting medical conditions, and other issues so that they can not only administer acupuncture treatment but also offer informed advice on how the patient can optimize their self-care regime – and enjoy a healthier lifestyle. During this interview process, a professional treatment provider will ask probing questions to get a more holistic idea of the challenges that the patient faces as far as their health is concerned – and probe deeply to find out why those challenges may exist. Acupuncture treatment is holistic – it does not simply rely on the insertion of needles – it is effective because it takes a variety of factors into account. If the practitioner is treating a briefing session as a one-way street where the patient simply talks and they listen, they may not be providing that holistic experience.
When all is said and done acupuncture can be highly effective – and can work hand in hand with Western medical practice to provide relief from a variety of symptoms associated with chronic conditions. However, choosing the right practitioner in Fort Lauderdale acupuncture is the first step towards a healthier and more fulfilled lifestyle.
