Acupuncture

Practiced for more than 5,000 years in China, acupuncture is one of the oldest therapeutic methods still used today. Introduced to Europe in the 17th century, this ancestral technique continues to appeal through its unique approach to well-being.

According to traditional Chinese medicine, our health essentially depends on the harmonious circulation of vital energy, called Qi. Indeed, when this energy is disrupted, illness can occur. Acupuncture therefore aims to restore this vital balance by precisely stimulating 361 points located along 12 meridians that connect different organs of the body.

The benefits of acupuncture are now recognized by many medical studies, particularly for relieving chronic pain, reducing stress and anxiety, improving sleep quality, and even supporting smoking cessation. Surprisingly, although it uses needles, this practice is generally considered painless, as the needles are extremely fine and penetrate only the upper layer of the epidermis.

In France, 7 out of 10 people have already turned to alternative medicine, including acupuncture. Some health insurers also offer partial reimbursement of costs, making this therapeutic approach more accessible.

The fundamental principles of acupuncture

Acupuncture is based on age-old concepts that form the foundation of this therapeutic practice. Its functioning includes fundamental principles that guide every aspect of the treatment.

Origins and philosophy of Chinese medicine

Traditional Chinese medicine, of which acupuncture is one of the pillars, developed over millennia through careful observation of nature and the human body. This approach considers the human being as an indivisible whole.

At the heart of this philosophy lies the notion of balance. Any energetic imbalance can, according to this view, lead to physical or emotional dysfunction. Acupuncture therefore does not simply seek to eliminate a symptom, but rather to restore the body’s overall harmony.

The role of Qi, Yin and Yang

Qi (pronounced “chee”) represents the vital energy flowing through our body. This essential force nourishes all our organs and physiological functions. When Qi circulates freely, health flourishes. Conversely, when it stagnates or becomes deficient, health problems can arise.

Yin and Yang are two complementary and opposing forces that must maintain a dynamic balance:

• Yin embodies feminine aspects, inwardness, cold, darkness, and rest

• Yang symbolizes masculine qualities, outwardness, heat, light, and activity

These two forces are interdependent and in constant transformation. Their harmony is essential to maintaining good health. Acupuncture precisely aims to regulate these energies when they become unbalanced.

The meridians and acupuncture points

In the human body, Qi circulates through a complex network of invisible channels called meridians. These connect the organs to one another and carry vital energy throughout the organism.

Along these meridians are 361 main acupuncture points. Each point has specific functions and can influence different aspects of our health. For example, some points act on pain, others on emotions or organ functions.

By precisely stimulating these points with very fine needles, the acupuncturist can unblock stagnant Qi, strengthen deficient energy, or calm excessive energy. This targeted action gradually restores the body’s energy balance as a whole and, consequently, improves the person’s overall health.

The different stimulation techniques

Different methods can be used to stimulate acupuncture points, each with its own characteristics and specific benefits. By understanding these techniques, it becomes easier to choose the one best suited to our therapeutic needs.

Traditional needles: the most common method

The insertion of very fine needles remains the most widespread technique in acupuncture. These needles, generally made of stainless steel but sometimes fully gold-plated, are extremely thin and gently penetrate the upper layer of the epidermis. Contrary to popular belief, this method is generally not painful but may cause slight tingling.

Stimulation can be increased by twisting or gently heating the needle. To ensure optimal safety, practitioners now use exclusively single-use needles, sterilized according to strict standards, thus avoiding any risk of infection.

Moxibustion: heat and energy

Moxibustion, a practice complementary to acupuncture, consists of heating specific points by burning dried mugwort (moxa). This technique helps activate and circulate Qi and blood in the meridians.

Two main approaches are distinguished: direct moxibustion, where moxa cones are placed directly on the points, and indirect moxibustion, where a stick is held at a distance from the skin. This method is particularly effective for treating joint pain, digestive disorders, and strengthening the immune system, especially in winter.

 Applications and benefits

The therapeutic applications of acupuncture are numerous and scientifically recognized in several areas of health. This traditional medicine offers effective solutions for various conditions, as we will discover.

Relief of chronic pain

Acupuncture is particularly effective in relieving persistent pain. In Switzerland, around one in five people suffers from chronic pain, and acupuncture offers a proven therapeutic alternative. Its effectiveness has been scientifically demonstrated in treating postoperative pain, headaches, neck pain, chronic lower back pain, and knee osteoarthritis. In general, symptoms are reduced sustainably after 5 to 20 sessions, with a significant decrease in pain intensity.

Reduction of stress and anxiety

In Chinese medicine, stress is known as a Shen disorder, a term referring to psychological conditions. Acupuncture works effectively by stimulating certain points that promote the release of endorphins, thus creating an internal state of calm. It also strengthens willpower, giving the patient the strength to cope more effectively with episodes of anxiety. This approach specifically targets the Liver-Gallbladder system, considered the main manager of emotions.

Improved sleep

For people suffering from insomnia, acupuncture offers a natural solution. According to studies, 30% of adults suffer from insomnia at some point in their lives. Acupuncture promotes the release of melatonin, the hormone that regulates the sleep-wake cycle. In Chinese medicine, insomnia is generally associated with a disturbance of the Shen, and treatments are personalized according to the specific type of sleep disorder presented.

Help with smoking cessation and addictions

Acupuncture is an effective approach for treating addictions. For smoking cessation, the chances of quitting are higher than without follow-up and can be tripled. This practice eliminates nicotine withdrawal, allowing the patient to experience no nervous disturbance during detoxification. Acupuncture also helps reduce cravings, relieve withdrawal symptoms, and manage emotions that can trigger addictive behaviors.

Strengthening the immune system

In traditional Chinese medicine, a good balance between defensive energies (Wei Qi) and external pathogenic energies (Xie Qi) is essential for health. Blood tests before/after acupuncture sessions have revealed a dramatic increase in white blood cell production, up to 60% within three hours after needling. Point E36, on the stomach meridian, has been the subject of several studies confirming its rapid action on white blood cell production, earning it the name “the point of longevity” among the Chinese.

How an acupuncture appointment works

To fully benefit from acupuncture’s advantages, understanding how a session unfolds makes it possible to prepare properly and optimize the treatment results.

First consultation: energetic diagnosis

The first visit begins with an in-depth consultation. The acupuncturist asks me about my medical history, lifestyle, and current symptoms. This exchange is followed by a specific physical examination including observation of the tongue (coating, color, shape) and taking the Chinese pulses at the wrists. These pulses, twelve in number, reflect the energetic state of the organs. This diagnosis helps identify the energy imbalances at the root of the disorders and establish a personalized treatment plan.

Session duration and frequency

A standard session generally lasts between 30 and 60 minutes. During treatment, I remain lying quietly with the needles in place for 20 to 30 minutes. For optimal results, a protocol of 8 to 10 sessions is often recommended, although some conditions may require more or fewer sessions. At the beginning, appointments are close together (1 to 2 times per week), then spacing gradually increases as improvement appears.

Advice before and after a session

Before the session, it is preferable to:

• Eat lightly (neither on an empty stomach nor with the stomach too full)

• Wear loose clothing that allows access to the areas being treated

• Avoid alcohol and stimulants such as coffee

After treatment, it is advisable to drink plenty of water, rest if possible, and avoid strenuous effort for a few hours to allow the energy to circulate freely.