What is Acupuncture and How Does the Evaluation Process Work?
Acupuncture, a traditional health practice, is evaluated and applied alongside modern medical approaches today. Based on the principle of providing stimuli to specific points on the body using various methods, this practice requires the patient to undergo a detailed medical evaluation.
Important Notice: This text is for informational purposes only. Acupuncture practices do not replace standard diagnosis and treatment; a specialist physician must always be consulted for personal medical evaluation and treatment planning.
What is Acupuncture Treatment and How Does It Work?
The mechanism of action of acupuncture is explained by both traditional theories and modern medical research. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine philosophy, there are 14 main meridians (channels) in the human body and 360 acupuncture points located on these meridians. It is aimed to stimulate these points correctly. If the points are not selected and stimulated correctly, the desired effect may not be achieved.
Scientific and Histological Findings
Modern medical studies examine the anatomical and electrical differences of acupuncture points. As a result of histological and anatomical research, an increased concentration of mucopolysaccharides has been detected in the developed capillary networks in the regions where acupuncture points are located. In addition, it has been determined that these points possess different electrical characteristics such as increased conductivity, decreased electrical resistance, and elevated potential.
In research conducted on pain control mechanisms, the presence of receptors such as opioid, GABA, bradykinin, histamine, serotonin, and capsaicin on cell membranes (nociceptor surface membrane) suggests that the effect of acupuncture extends from the spinal cord level to the nociceptors.
How is Medical Acupuncture Applied?
Medical acupuncture can be applied using different methods depending on the patient's condition and sensitivities. These methods are examined mainly in three categories:
1. Needle Acupuncture
It is the most widely known acupuncture technique. It is applied by placing single-use, sterile acupuncture needles into acupuncture points at perpendicular, slanted, or horizontal angles to the skin surface. These needles can be produced from stainless steel, gold, or silver alloys. The type of needles can vary depending on the targeted stimulus; for example, gold needles are generally preferred for tonification, while silver needles can be used for sedation. After the needles are placed in the skin, the practitioner can slightly rotate them clockwise or counterclockwise to increase the effect of the stimulus (manipulation).
2. Electroacupuncture
In this method, needles placed into acupuncture points are connected via cables to a device that generates electrical frequencies. A gentle, tolerable electrical current is passed between two needles. By adjusting the amount of stimulation, frequency, and amplitude via the device, it is aimed to provide stimulation at different levels compared to manual needle manipulation.
3. Laser Acupuncture
It is the process of using non-thermal (non-heating), low-level laser beams instead of needles to stimulate acupuncture points. It is a painless method applied without breaking the skin integrity (non-invasive). It is an important alternative, especially for patients with a fear of needles (phobia), as well as pediatric (child) and geriatric (elderly) patients.
Acupuncture Initial Examination Process and Patient Evaluation
Undergoing a detailed medical examination before acupuncture treatment is a highly critical stage. Patient evaluation before acupuncture is meticulously carried out to ensure the safety of the application and the suitability of the patient.
Detailed Anamnesis and Information
Before the application, a detailed history (anamnesis) regarding the patient's current health status, chronic diseases, medications used, and medical history is taken by the physician. In light of this information, an anamnesis form is filled out and processed into the patient's file.
The practicing physician explains the procedure to be performed, the application method to be used (needle, laser, etc.), points to consider during the procedure, and potential side effects (adverse events) to the patient or their legal representative both verbally and in writing. At the end of this process, an informed consent form is obtained from the patient.
Planning in Sensitive Groups
Certain patient groups require special evaluation regarding acupuncture practices. The elderly, children, breastfeeding mothers, those with a history of oncologic diseases, and individuals diagnosed with chronic diseases are considered sensitive populations. Special information regarding the application is provided to these groups, and proceedings are carried out in cooperation (consultation) with the relevant specialist physicians who follow the patient, when necessary.
How Are Acupuncture Sessions Monitored?
The planning of acupuncture sessions and the follow-up of each session are bound to a certain standard for the safety of the patient. During each application, the patient's vital signs are checked.
The physician records the examination findings of the patient, the specific techniques applied, and side effects encountered, if observed, for each session via the "Patient Follow-up Form". Thus, the progress of the application is monitored professionally, and the planning of the next session is shaped according to these data.
In conclusion, acupuncture practices require detailed preparation, a sterile environment, and a comprehensive medical evaluation process. Carrying out all these processes by a medical doctor who is an expert in their field forms the basis of patient safety.
This content has been translated using artificial intelligence technology.
