In Chinese medicine, health is believed to be from qi (pronounced “chee”), the free flow of energy in your body. Acupuncturists believe disruptions in this flow are what cause illnesses and ailments, and that the placement of needles in strategic places on the body can provide healing and relief by unblocking the energy flow.
Terri Thorfinnson, Executive Officer of the California Acupuncture Board (Board), says “The foundations of acupuncture focus on restoring balance to the patient. Acupuncture is the healing aspect of our health care system … [and] plays an essential role in health and wellness.”
According to the University of California, San Francisco, Medical Center, acupuncture can be used to treat conditions such as:
- Side effects of cancer treatment
- Headaches
- Chronic neck and back pain
- Chronic fatigue syndrome
- Asthma
- Sports injuries
- Women’s reproductive health issues
Thorfinnson adds that acupuncture can also be used to treat diabetes, allergies, immune disorders, and addiction.
Acupuncturists in California are licensed and regulated by the Board. To qualify as a licensed acupuncturist, the applicant must complete specific education, training, and exam requirements.
For more information about acupuncture, read the fall 2015 Consumer Connection article on the Department of Consumer Affairs website, www.dca.ca.gov/publications/newsletter/fall2015.pdf and visit the Board’s website, www.acupuncture.ca.gov.
