Treating Heart Disease With Acupuncture
July 29, 2008
Numerous drugs are being marketed today to combat heart disease. But along with these drugs comes the risk of unpleasant side effects for the user. This is one reason many patients are using alternative medical treatments to take care of heart disease instead of traditional medicines which can have detrimental side effects.
One treatment that many people are turning to for help in managing their heart condition, or to keep from developing one, is acupuncture. In this centuries-old Chinese practice, small, slender needles are inserted into different areas of the body to enhance health.
The basis for this practice is the movement of energy throughout the body that may become blocked. The practice of acupuncture helps to unblock and redirect that energy. And science is on the side of this practice.
Scientific investigation shows evidence that acupuncture can relieve hypertension, which in turn reduces the chances of heart disease. There is also data that shows it can decrease the risk of angina, which is chest pains caused when the heart’s blood vessels go into spasm. In the studies, those who chose acupuncture to treat their angina recuperated sooner than those who relied on traditional medication.
Acupuncture is generally painless because the needles used are so tiny. It can also be a relaxing experience. Once the needles are inserted into your body, you lie quietly for several minutes and rest.
Before choosing an acupuncturist, do a little homework to make sure of certification by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine. This tells you that your acupuncturist has the training required to practice this type of medicine and continues to refresh their education.
Certain insurance companies will cover the cost of acupuncture. However, most do not so you will probably have to pay for the treatment yourself. The cost of acupuncture is dependent upon the area where you live. You can make a few phone calls to find out the average rate.
Generally, you’ll need to make a few visits before you start seeing results. But in the end it will mostly likely be well worth your time since you won’t be experiencing the side effects and possible addiction that normally go along with the use of medication.
Some people are unsure about alternative medicine therapies, but a quick look online can show you that science is beginning to come around to this ancient form of medicine. The Chinese have been practicing it for centuries, and Westerners really are the ones behind the times.
Many studies are confirming what people have known traditionally for a long time - acupuncture does work in many cases.
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