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Acupuncture In Today's Society

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“Can acupuncture therapies make a valuable contribution to health in today’s society?”

Introduction:
Acupuncture is a natural practice that originated in China over 2000 years ago. It involves the insertion of fine needles into particular point, known as anatomical points , which alter the disease process and treat illnesses. For hundreds of years acupuncture has proven to be a successful form of treatment and has been formally recognised as a “mainstream medicine healing option” . Currently acupuncture is used as either a complimentary or alternative treatment, which it demonstrates a high success rate, however is it really necessary? With the introduction of new western medicines and the availability of new treatments, can acupuncture therapies …show more content…
Archaeologists have found a number of fine pointed stones, which have been determined as ancient acupuncture instruments . These were discovered to have treated ancient Chinese citizens using the same methods which are employed today. In the 11th century, Wang Weiyi created a giant bronze man, which displayed 657 acupuncture points (Fg.1). This was a huge advancement in medical education in ancient China. Historical records show that in 1034 AD acupuncture successfully cured Emperor Renzong , which thoroughly increased the popularity and development of this practise. Over the next hundreds of years acupuncture became more popular and started to become used in more treatments throughout the world. When acupuncture was first performed, the ancient Chinese used sharp rock or animal bone slithers and bamboo needles . In the 4th century, China started using steel needles, as it was a fine material and easy to use. Today, very fine, disposable stainless steel needles are used when performing the practice. Acupuncture was mainly used by the ancient Chinese, but it is now becoming a widely used practice all over the …show more content…
Cancer is becoming an increasingly common disease in today’s society and acupuncture can assist with treating the discomfort associated with the disease. Acupuncture is also becoming increasing popular with a younger audience in the treatment of sporting injuries .

A survey shows that 88.89% of people found that acupuncture was effective when treating a sporting injury .
Cancer pain and sporting injuries are becoming increasingly common in today’s society, therefore with acupuncture able to treat/contribute to the treatment of these, it is making a great contribution to health. It is widely accepted as a complimentary treatment of pain that comes with surgeries or illnesses, however, it is also fast growing as an alternative treatment for a diverse range of conditions, not just ones associated with pain.

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