Thursday, September 9, 2010

Similarities between Acupuncture and Chiropractic

Acupuncture and Chiropractic
From the Book “Dissecting Chiropractic” by Strix Toledo

This ancient method of inserting very fine needles into the body to induce a physiological response is more than 4,000 years old.  It relates directly to the idea of so many other complimentary medicine systems, including chiropractic, that the body has an energy running through it.  In Chinese, this profound energy is referred to as Qi of Chi, and is pronounced “chee.”  Qi has a direct impact on the balance and wellness of all systems in the body.

Just like with nerve signals, Qi “interference” or blockage prevents optimal health.  The goal of the acupuncturist is to remove the obstacles, just like the chiropractor endeavors to reduce subluxations.  Perhaps this similarity in principle is what has endeared acupuncture to a multitude of chiropractors. Many chiropractors incorporate acupuncture or the non-invasive, more massage-like form, acupressure, into their practices.

Acupuncture also has a map of the body where certain stimulus points are related to organs and systems in the body.  Sometimes acupuncture needles are inserted with a small electrical impulse added to further stimulate the local and correspondence areas, with the aim of removing the “interference” and normalizing function. 

The Qi, as an energy form, is believed to flow down the pathways called meridians.  The meridians need to be free from interference or obstructions and in balance in order to achieve optimal health.



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