Some common CAM practices include herbal medicines,aromatherapy,yoga, and therapeuticmassage.
Acupuncture is another punch in of CAM practice that may enhance personal wellness.
What Is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture for panic disorder.Getty Images Credit: Caiaimage/Trevor Adeline
Acupuncture is a healing technique that originated thousands of years ago from traditional Chinese medicine (TCM).
TCM theorizes that the body contains vital life energy calledchiorqi.
When the body and mind are functioning properly, chi should flow through the bodys energy channels.
These channels are called meridians and are located at certain points throughout the body.
According to this tradition, sometimes chi becomes congested in different meridian pathways, leading to disease or disorders.
The goal of acupuncture is to restore the health and balance of these channels.
How Does It Work?
During acupuncture treatment sessions, small needles are placed along with specific areas of the body.
Known as acupuncture points, these areas are thought to be where blockage of energy may be occurring.
Until the late 1990s, acupuncture needles were not recognized as tools to treat medical conditions.
Effectiveness
Clinical trials examining acupuncture for anxiety has shown some positive results.
More rigorous research studies need to be conducted for prove the effectiveness of acupuncture for anxiety disorders.
Not all CAM practices have been thoroughly researched for safety and effectiveness.
It is also important that you receive these services from a licensed acupuncturist.
However, acupuncture may be a helpful addition to your standardtreatment plan.
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National Institute for Complementary and Integrative Health.Acupuncture: In Depth.
Kim YK.Panic Disorder: Current Research and Management Approaches.
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National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine.
What is Complementary and Alternative Medicine?
Pilkington, K. (2010).
Wang, S-M, & Kain, Z. N. (2001).
Auricular Acupuncture: A Potential Treatment for Anxiety.Anesthesia & Analgesia, 92, 548-553.
