Acupuncture
Definition
Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine practice involving the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body to promote healing and balance. It is often used as a complementary therapy to alleviate pain and treat various physical, mental, and emotional conditions.
5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test
- Acupuncture can help in the management of chronic pain such as arthritis, migraines, and back pain.
- It is believed to stimulate the body's natural healing processes by influencing various physiological systems including the nervous system.
- Acupuncture is recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO) for its effectiveness in treating certain conditions like nausea and vomiting post-chemotherapy.
- Possible side effects of acupuncture include soreness, minor bleeding or bruising at needle sites, but serious complications are rare when performed by a trained practitioner.
- In pharmacology for nurses, understanding acupuncture's role in holistic patient care can be crucial for providing comprehensive treatment plans that integrate alternative therapies.
Review Questions
- What are some common conditions that acupuncture can help manage?
- How does acupuncture potentially influence physiological systems in the body?
- What are potential side effects of acupuncture?
"Acupuncture" appears in:
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Related terms
Complementary Therapy: A treatment used alongside conventional medical treatments to aid in patient care.
Holistic Medicine: An approach to healthcare that considers the whole person, including physical, emotional, social, and spiritual aspects.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM): A broad range of medicine practices sharing common concepts developed in China over thousands of years.
