Tuesday, July 29, 2008

Treating Heart Disease With Acupuncture

By Keira Adams

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.

A popular alternative treatment that shows promise in helping patients to manage their heart condition, or avoid developing one, is acupuncture. Acupuncture has been used by the Chinese for centuries to enhance health and wellbeing, through the use of small needles which are inserted into appropriate locations in the body.

According to tradition, acupuncture aids in the movement of blocked energy in your body. It removes the obstruction and facilitates the flow of energy once again. And research indicates that there's something to 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.

When you're deciding on where to go for your acupuncture treatment, check that the practitioner has certification from the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine. This lets you know that they have a good education and that they continually update their knowledge.

Acupuncture is covered by some medical insurance, but most people will probably have to pay out of pocket. Visits range widely in cost across the country. It's a good idea to call several practitioners in your area to find out about the going rate.

Several visits may be required before getting the results that you are seeking. But the end result may be worth it because there are no side effects such as those typically associated with drug alternatives, not to mention the expense and risk of addiction to traditional medicines.

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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