Paul, I think you are correct on those two points. I managed an experimental acupuncture clinic in the late 80s. (We added 5 auricular points as an ancillary treatment to standard addiction treatment. During detoxification, it was theorized that a more homeostatic state would improve outcomes by allowing the patient increased benefit from counseling etc. During relapse prevention, we hoped restoring balance could reduce cravings and also assist the patient to better resist the cravings that come with addiction disease.)
I watched 50 to 60 people a day receive treatment. They reported that 1 acupuncturist tended to hurt them a bit more than the other two. We described the sensation as similar to a "brief pinch." In my own experience, I tended not to feel much discomfort; however, on one or more occasions I too had increased sensitivity. Many active points are below the elbow and below the knee. These areas may not tend to be sensitive like the ears. Someone trained in chinese medicine might have an explanation. Acupuncture has not been well received by American medicine. (Parts of Europe have been more receptive.) The series of studies, like large double blind studies including sham points, that are necessary for acceptance require resources. Pharmacological treatments have profit to drive the studies. One area in which acupuncture has gained acceptance here is in treatment of pain both acute and chronic. I am out of date with the literature, but I certainly hope further research has been done in other areas. Fear of the pain of the insertion is not a reason to avoid acupuncture treatment. Korben et al deserve a lot of credit for trying this community acupuncture approach. (Acupuncture can be an extremely cost effective treatment.) I wish them good luck. Glenn ----- Original Message ----- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: UnivCity@list.purple.com Sent: Tuesday, June 10, 2008 11:55 PM Subject: Re: [UC] Philadelphia Community Acupuncture Having been needled on many occasions, I'd agree with Muriel. It can hurt, but it's not like getting a shot. Often the sensation is really negligible, and the results worthwhile. OTOH I do see a dentist that is able to give me Novocaine shots that I don't feel at all, so perhaps it depends on the skill of the acupuncturist and the state of your body. Paul -----Original Message----- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: [EMAIL PROTECTED]; univcity@list.purple.com Sent: Tue, 10 Jun 2008 4:21 pm Subject: Re: [UC] Philadelphia Community Acupuncture I think one cannot say with certainty that acupuncture does not hurt....there may be stinging and some uncomfortable sensations. Pain and discomfort are relative. I do not enjoy the initial pricks but I do like the outcome. Each person has a different pain threshhold. Muriel ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Vote for your city's best dining and nightlife. City's Best 2008. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Get the Moviefone Toolbar. Showtimes, theaters, movie news, & more! ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ No virus found in this incoming message. Checked by AVG. Version: 7.5.524 / Virus Database: 270.2.0/1494 - Release Date: 6/10/2008 7:22 AM
