Acupuncture: Understanding the Basics

The word “acupuncture” comes from Latin, where ACUS means “needle” and PUNKTURA means “puncturing” or “piercing.” Thus, it literally means “to insert a needle into a point.” The needles used in acupuncture do not contain any substances inside or on them. Nowadays, the most commonly used needles are made of stainless steel and are very thin, typically ranging from 1.3 to 1.5 mm in length. There are also different shapes of needles, such as those shaped like tacks used for ear acupuncture. In addition to steel needles, gold and silver needles are also used.

When the needle is inserted into the skin, it usually does not cause much pain, and most patients are often unaware that the needle has been inserted.

According to acupuncture philosophy, the human body has 12 pairs and 2 single meridians, making a total of 14 meridians. There are 360 acupuncture points located along these meridians. As acupuncture specialists, we insert needles into these points, typically using an average of 6-8 needles per session. The number of needles used does not indicate the practitioner’s skill or the treatment’s success; rather, it varies based on each patient’s specific issues. All acupuncture needles used in our center are single-use only.

However, acupuncture today is not limited to needle insertion; it can also be applied by delivering heat to the points (Moxibustion), using electrical currents (Electroacupuncture), or using laser light (Laser Acupuncture).

Types of Acupuncture:

There are currently two proven types of acupuncture practiced worldwide:

  1. Classic Body Acupuncture: This method involves the application of needles to acupuncture points along the body’s energy meridians, dating back to ancient times.
  2. Ear Acupuncture: Developed after World War II according to the rules set by French doctor Nogier.

Our center applies ear acupuncture (Nogier system). Both types of acupuncture can yield good results when used, and they have no known side effects.

Acupuncture and Weight Loss:

Acupuncture is an effective treatment method that makes dieting easier. With acupuncture, dieting can be done comfortably.

  • It regulates the appetite center located in the hypothalamus, allowing patients to feel satisfied with smaller amounts of food.
  • By reducing stomach acid secretion, acupuncture helps prevent issues like stomach discomfort and heartburn during dieting.
  • Acupuncture prevents fatigue and weakness during dieting while providing energy to patients, making them feel more vigorous.
  • It regulates metabolic rate, helping patients lose weight more easily than through self-directed diets.
  • By increasing serotonin and endorphin levels, acupuncture brings tranquility and sedation, preventing individuals on a diet from feeling irritable or anxious due to food restrictions.

Initially, patients undergo one acupuncture session per week. After about 6-8 weeks, patients typically lose an average of 8-10 kilograms. Once the individual reaches their desired weight, they enter a weight maintenance program. During the 3-6 month maintenance program, acupuncture sessions are held once a month. Patients are encouraged to follow a healthy, balanced, and sufficient diet during this period. After the maintenance period, patients should have check-ups 2 to 3 times a year.