Read the passage and answer the question that follow.
(1) Acupuncture is one of the oldest forms of alternative medicine in Chinese history. The philosophy of acupuncture is based on the “Taoist Tradition” where these people meditate and observe the flow of positive energy inside and outside the body. Acupuncture has evolved over the years, but the concept and philosophy remain the same. Acupuncture involves the stimulation of anatomical locations on the skin through a variety of techniques and thin metal needles. Generally, alternative treatments receive little attention because some doctors are not aware that science proves that they really are effective alternatives to “drugs” and “medications”.
(2) Acupuncture works through physiological and energetic mechanisms. The energy mechanism is the balance of the channels or meridians through which the energy is transferred from one part of the body to another. Although the benefits of acupuncture have long been proven, it is essential that the technique is performed by a qualified professional.
(3) The benefits of acupuncture are mainly to counteract the pain. That’s why the technique is used against headache, toothache, osteoarthritis, rheumatism and to relieve menstrual pain. Acupuncturists use special needles of different sizes. These needles are sterile and inserted into one of the specific acupuncture points as well as the position of the energy flow. Normally, patients feel poking of the needles into their skin, but they cannot feel any pain. These needles are strong and larger than normal hair size.
(4) People who seek the unconventional treatment of acupuncture are those people who have suffered from a long period of chronic pain caused by their conditions such as chronic back pain that seems to never go away, painful headaches and migraines, cancer, depression, sleep disorders, and other effective disorders.
(5) Acupuncture for a headache: Several studies have scientifically confirmed the effectiveness of acupuncture in preventing and treating migraine attacks and headaches. In cases of a headache, traditional Chinese medicine techniques are analgesic, antiinflammatory, and act as a muscle relaxant.
(6) Acupuncture for anxiety and depression: Acupuncture may also be an option for the treatment of emotional disorders, depression, and anxiety. Acupuncture provides relaxation by balancing the body’s energies. Several studies in China have confirmed that acupuncture, combined with a very low dose of drugs to avoid stress, depression, and anxiety, is just as effective as treating a patient with a full dose of medication against depression.
(7) Repair the nerves efficiently: Acupuncture, unlike other medicines, acts directly on the nervous system. Therefore, it is undoubtedly the most effective therapy to stimulate nerve repair. Thus, it is the therapy of choice for strokes, paralysis, and health problems.
