Some people may confuse acupuncture with acupressure and vice versa. Although both lie on the belief that the human body needs to have a balanced flow of energy in order to be healthy, they are different methods of healing. Typically, they use meridians or points in the body that when stimulated, allows the body to regain the balance of the flow of energy. Both are considered pseudoscience because there is no scientific evidence to prove its effectiveness in healing and relieving certain conditions. Some experts say that these treatments may only give placebo effects to its clients. Others say that the stimulation done with the use of hands and needles releases endorphins and other natural chemicals that produces analgesic effect on the body.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture is a healing art that dates back in ancient China. It is done with the use of needles which are sterile, disposable and thin. The needles used are different from that used by medical professionals in administering medications which is why, when properly done it does not cause pain or discomfort. These needles are believed to reach the meridians and release it from obstructions. The person undergoing this procedure may only feel a twinge especially on the affected area. Nowadays, this procedure has been modified and studied to ensure safety of the practice. This should be done by trained acupuncturists who have undergone proper education so that the client receives more benefits than harm. The advantage of acupuncture is that the use of the needle provides more accuracy when treating an affected area so it is able to provide quicker relief.

Acupressure

Acupressure is another alternative healing method which originated in China and has existed before acupuncture. It also uses meridians and points in the body in order to have a balanced flow of energy. However, the stimulation is not by the use of needles, but by hands alone. This is somehow comparable to a massage. While acupuncture needs to be done by a trained person, acupressure can be done even by you. All you need to do is learn where the meridians are and what parts of the body they are attached to and you can massage them in order to feel relief from your condition. This is also different from acupuncture which can stimulate many meridians in one time since acupressure only stimulates one or two pressure points during the massage.

Both methods have been said to have favorable effects with the relief of dysmenorrhea, headaches and migraines, back pain, anxiety, depression and allergies. Studies are also being conducted regarding the effect of these methods in relieving side effects of chemotherapy for cancer such as the urge to throw up and vomiting. If you want pain relief that targets the affected area precisely, you can undergo acupuncture. However, if you do not feel comfortable with needles, you can choose acupressure. Both can give relief although the results may vary from person to person, depending on the severity of the condition, your tolerance to pain and your body’s response to the treatment.

Author Bio: Brent McNutt enjoys writing for Uniformhaven.com which sells urbane scrubs and landau 8335 as well as a host of additional products.

Category: Wellness, Fitness and Diet
Keywords: acupuncture,accupressure,human body