Houston is the technological and aeronautical hub of Texas. It is also the most populous city in the Lone Star State, with more than 2.3 million people, followed by San Antonio and Dallas. The area is an excellent blend of old and new. Side-by-side with skyscrapers is the Historic District, where you can find early 19th Century architecture.
The same goes for healthcare–where mainstream medicine works alongside alternative methods to provide a holistic treatment to patients. There are about 85 hospitals in the city with nearly 20,000 beds. It is tougher to ascertain how many clinics or centres offer acupuncture in Houston or other therapeutic methods.
In recent years, complementary and alternative medicine is already being accepted in mainstream society. According to data, the industry is estimated to be worth more than $296 billion worldwide by 2027. The compound annual growth rate is at an astounding 19.9%.
What is Acupuncture and What Does It Do?
Although relatively new in the West, acupuncture has been practiced in China for over 2,500 years. The idea is to balance the qi, which is roughly translated to the life force. If this energy is blocked, it will result in an imbalance, which can negatively affect the person physically and emotionally.
The center for acupuncture in Houston uses a very thin needle that will pierce the surface of the skin. But they also use a handle for the needle to ensure uniform penetration. The procedure was used for a long time to promote health and wellness.
But you can also try acupuncture if you have:
- Toothache
- Anxiety
- Depression
- allergy
- Inflammation
- Respiratory conditions
- Menstrual cramps
- Labor pain
- Migraines
- Arthritis
- Insomnia
However, it should be remembered that the effects will be different for everybody. If acupuncture does not give you the relief you expect, you can try other complementary methods, as well.
Is the Procedure Painful?
Since they are working with needles, people think that acupuncture will hurt. It is one of the primary reasons why people hesitate to undergo the procedure.
Generally, acupuncture does not hurt at all. However, the sensation will vary from patient to patient.
For example, some will feel a dull sensation from where the needle penetrated the skin. Others do not feel anything at all. But they are keenly aware of the moment when the needle pierces the surface.
But what about people who complained about feeling a throb? It is not exactly pain but the release of the qi that has been blocked for so long. Imagine opening up a dam, and the water gushes forth. Some may also describe the feeling like a heavy sensation, but never pain.
Admittedly, acupuncture is not for everybody. Some people have a phobia with needles, and nothing will convince them to try the technique.
Also, some patients might complain of a negative experience—from discomfort to pain—during their first visit. Certified acupuncturists will tell you that it is perfectly normal. Everybody has a different tolerance for pain, after all. But it will only get better during your succeeding visits, as you can already anticipate the sensation. Besides, the pain from the initial thrust will subside after a few seconds.
However, if you have tried mainstream medicine and other methods without providing you any relief for your condition, then opting for acupuncture would not hurt.
