Akupunktura v sodobni družinski medicini

Akupunktura, temelj tradicionalne kitajske medicine, se že več kot 2500 let uporablja za zdravljenje bolečin in izboljšanje splošnega zdravja. Čeprav so njene korenine starodavne, je bila akupunktura v zahodni medicini priznana šele pred kratkim. Danes vse več družinskih zdravnikov po vsem svetu v svoje prakse vključuje to celostno zdravljenje.

Od starodavne prakse do sodobne medicine

Akupunktura je praksa tradicionalne kitajske medicine, ki vključuje vstavljanje tankih igel v določene točke na telesu, da se obnovi pretok energije ali qija po poteh, znanih kot meridiani. Akupunktura se že stoletja uporablja kot zanesljivo zdravilo. Vendar so zahodni zdravniki šele pred kratkim začeli preučevati in validirati njeno učinkovitost. Nedavne raziskave so pokazale, da lahko akupunktura znatno zmanjša bolečino, kar je odprlo vrata njeni uporabi v sodobnih medicinskih praksah[2, 3].

Prva dokumentacija o akupunkturi, ki jo opisuje kot organiziran sistem diagnosticiranja in zdravljenja, je v Klasiki notranje medicine Rumenega cesarja (Huangdi Neijing), ki je nastala 100 let pred našim štetjem. Praksa se je razširila v sosednje države in bila v 17. stoletju predstavljena na Zahodu. Kljub začetnemu skepticizmu je akupunktura v 70. letih 20. stoletja, ko je novinar New York Timesa opisal njeno učinkovitost pri lajšanju bolečin, pridobila veliko pozornosti v Združenih državah Amerike. Od takrat so znanstvene raziskave in podpora zdravstvenih organizacij, kot sta WHO (SZO) in NIH, potrdile njeno uporabo.

[Preberi več: Koliko različnih vrst akupunkture obstaja? Spoznajte jih]

Izzivi pri vključevanju

Kljub njenim dokazanim koristim imajo številni zdravniki in bolniki o akupunkturi predsodke. Nekateri jo smatrajo za neznanstveno ali nekonvencionalno. Ta skepticizem je razumljiv, vendar z ustreznim izobraževanjem in izkušnjami iz prve roke pogosto izgine. Številni zdravniki, ki so sprva dvomili o akupunkturi, so si premislili, ko so videli pozitivne rezultate pri svojih pacientih.

Družinski zdravniki morajo biti ustrezno usposobljeni, da lahko suvereno ponujajo akupunkturo svojim bolnikom. Usposabljanje ne le demistificira prakso, temveč zdravnike tudi opremi z veščinami, potrebnimi za učinkovito ozaveščanje o njenih koristih. Raziskave so pokazale, da zdravniki, ki opravijo usposabljanje za akupunkturo, redkeje predpisujejo opioide in pogosteje ohranjajo celostni pogled na oskrbo bolnikov[4, 5].

[Preberi več: Vaše telo je ekosistem, ne stroj] [Preberi več: TKM vs. zahodna medicina]

Implementacija medicinske akupunkture

Akupunktura in druge tehnike TKM, kot sta moksibustija in ventuze, so pomembne v tradicionalni vzhodni medicini in se vse pogosteje uporabljajo na Zahodu. Akupunktura se večinoma izvaja na Kitajskem[6], sledijo ZDA[7], Avstralija[8] in Evropa[9].

Družinski zdravniki se čedalje pogosteje učijo vključevati akupunkturo v svoje storitve in vam tako omogočijo več možnosti za obvladovanje bolečine. To izvajajo na naslednji način:

1. Izobraževanje in usposabljanje: Zdravniki se izobražujejo o tehnikah akupunkture in spoznavajo njene prednosti. To usposabljanje jim pomaga, da se počutijo samozavestne pri priporočanju in izvajanju akupunkture.

2. Komunikacija z bolniki: Zdravniki se z bolniki pogovarjajo o akupunkturi in jim razložijo, kaj vključuje in kako lahko pomaga. Prepričajo se, da bolniki razumejo, kaj lahko pričakujejo med terapijami.

3. Poudarek na celostnem zdravju: Akupunktura ni le lajšanje bolečin. Z njo lahko izboljšamo spanje, duševno zdravje in splošno kakovost življenja. Zdravniki upoštevajo te širše koristi za zdravje, ko se z bolniki pogovarjajo o možnostih zdravljenja.

[Preberi več: Celostno zdravljenje raka z akupunkturo v Sloveniji]

Odpravljanje pogostih pomislekov

Strah pred iglami

Mnogi ljudje se bojijo igel. Vendar so akupunkturne igle zelo tanke, veliko tanjše od tistih, ki se uporabljajo za injekcije ali krvne preiskave. Večina bolnikov meni, da je postopek sproščujoč in neboleč, ko ga enkrat preizkusijo. Zdravniki pogosto začnejo s samo eno iglo, da bi ublažili morebitno tesnobo.

Čas in stroški

Načrtovanje časa za terapije z akupunkturo je lahko zahtevno. Čakalna doba je lahko precej dolga. Poleg tega akupunktura ni "hitra rešitev" in zahteva zaporedne tretmaje, pri čemer vsak tretma traja približno 30 minut. Zavarovalno kritje je sicer različno, vendar dolgoročne koristi pogosto upravičijo stroške.

Neželeni učinki

Čeprav so vse terapije povezane s tveganji in koristmi, je akupunktura varna, če jo izvaja usposobljen zdravnik s sterilnimi iglami za enkratno uporabo. Poročajo o razmeroma majhnem številu zapletov.

Koristi akupunkture

Akupunktura je naravno, nefarmakološko zdravljenje z minimalnimi stranskimi učinki. Posebej koristna je pri kroničnih bolečinah, ki se ne odzivajo dobro na druga zdravljenja. Bolniki pogosto poročajo ne le o zmanjšanju bolečine, temveč tudi o izboljšanju spanja, razpoloženja in splošnega počutja.

V 60 državah je bilo izvedenih več kot 13.000 študij, vključno z več sto metaanalizami, ki povzemajo rezultate več tisoč študij na ljudeh in živalih. Preučena so bila najrazličnejša klinična področja, med drugim bolečina, rak, nosečnost, možganska kap, motnje razpoloženja, motnje spanja in vnetja.[Preberi več: Akupunktura: pregled znanstvenih dokazov]

Ker se vse več družinskih zdravnikov odloča za akupunkturo, imajo bolniki dostop do tega starodavnega, a učinkovitega zdravljenja. S premagovanjem skepticizma in vključevanjem akupunkture v svojo prakso lahko zdravniki ponudijo celosten pristop k obvladovanju bolečine in splošnemu zdravju. Ne glede na to, ali se spopadate s kroničnimi bolečinami ali iščete naravni način za izboljšanje počutja, je lahko akupunktura dragocen dodatek k vaši zdravstveni oskrbi.

Če vas zanima, kako vam lahko akupunktura pomaga, se posvetujte s svojim družinskim zdravnikom ali obiščite našo kliniko TKM. Tukaj smo, da vam pomagamo na poti do boljšega zdravja s pomočjo brezčasne modrosti akupunkture.

Viri:

1. Ledford CJW, Crawford PF 3rd. Integrating Medical Acupuncture into Family Medicine Practice. Am Fam Physician. 2019 Jul 15;100(2):76-78. PMID: 31305038.

2. Kelly RB, Willis J. Acupuncture for Pain. Am Fam Physician. 2019 Jul 15;100(2):89-96. PMID: 31305037.

3. Vickers AJ, Vertosick EA, Lewith G, MacPherson H, Foster NE, Sherman KJ, Irnich D, Witt CM, Linde K; Acupuncture Trialists' Collaboration. Acupuncture for Chronic Pain: Update of an Individual Patient Data Meta-Analysis. J Pain. 2018 May;19(5):455-474. doi: 10.1016/j.jpain.2017.11.005. Epub 2017 Dec 2. PMID: 29198932; PMCID: PMC5927830.

4. Crawford P, Penzien DB, Coeytaux R. Reduction in Pain Medication Prescriptions and Self-Reported Outcomes Associated with Acupuncture in a Military Patient Population. Med Acupunct. 2017 Aug 1;29(4):229-231. doi: 10.1089/acu.2017.1234. PMID: 28874924; PMCID: PMC5580367.

5. Crawford PF 3rd, Rupert J, Jackson JT, Walkowski S, Ledford CJW. Relationship of Training in Acupuncture to Physician Burnout. J Am Board Fam Med. 2019 Mar-Apr;32(2):259-263. doi: 10.3122/jabfm.2019.02.180204. PMID: 30850462.

6. Zhang J, Shang H, Gao X, Ernst E. Acupuncture-related adverse events: a systematic review of the Chinese literature. Bull World Health Organ. 2010 Dec 1;88(12):915-921C. doi: 10.2471/BLT.10.076737. Epub 2010 Aug 27. PMID: 21124716; PMCID: PMC2995190.

7. Xu S, Wang L, Cooper E, Zhang M, Manheimer E, Berman B, Shen X, Lao L. Adverse events of acupuncture: a systematic review of case reports. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2013;2013:581203. doi: 10.1155/2013/581203. Epub 2013 Mar 20. PMID: 23573135; PMCID: PMC3616356.

8. Xue CC, Zhang AL, Lin V, Myers R, Polus B, Story DF. Acupuncture, chiropractic and osteopathy use in Australia: a national population survey. BMC Public Health. 2008 Apr 1;8:105. doi: 10.1186/1471-2458-8-105. PMID: 18377663; PMCID: PMC2322980.

9. Litscher, Gerhard, Litscher, Daniel. Modernization of Acupuncture Education in Europe and China: A Report from Austria. OBM Integrative and Complementary Medicine. 2016. https://doi.org/10.21926/obm.icm.1601002.

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Acupuncture in Modern Family Medicine Practice

Acupuncture, a cornerstone of Traditional Chinese Medicine, has been used for over 2,500 years to treat pain and improve overall health. While its roots are ancient, acupuncture has only recently gained recognition in Western medicine. Today, more family doctors around the world are incorporating this holistic treatment into their practices. 

From Ancient Practice to Modern Medicine

Acupuncture is a Traditional Chinese Medicine practice that involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to restore the flow of energy, or Qi, along pathways known as meridians. For centuries, it has been a trusted remedy. However, it took until recently for Western doctors to study and validate its effectiveness. Recent research shows that acupuncture can significantly reduce pain, opening the door for its use in modern medical practices[2, 3]. 

The first documentation of acupuncture that described it as an organized system of diagnosis and treatment is in The Yellow Emperor's Classic of Internal Medicine (Huangdi Neijing), which dates back to 100 BCE. The practice spread to neighboring countries and was introduced to the West in the 17th century. Despite early skepticism, acupuncture gained significant attention in the United States in the 1970s after a New York Times reporter described its effectiveness for pain relief. Since then, scientific research and endorsements from health organizations like the WHO and NIH have validated its use. 

[Read more: Know the Different Types of Acupuncture]

Challenges in Integration

Despite its proven benefits, many doctors and patients have preconceived notions about acupuncture. Some see it as unscientific or unconventional. This skepticism is understandable but often fades with proper education and firsthand experience. Many doctors who initially doubted acupuncture have changed their minds after seeing the positive outcomes in their patients.

Family physicians must be adequately trained to feel confident in offering acupuncture to their patients. Training not only demystifies the practice but also equips physicians with the skills necessary to communicate its benefits effectively. Research has shown that physicians who undergo acupuncture training are less likely to prescribe opioids and are more likely to maintain a holistic view of patient care[4, 5].

[Read more: Your Body as a Garden] [Read more: TCM vs Western Medicine]

Implementing Medical Acupuncture

Acupuncture and other TCM techniques such as moxibustion, and cupping, are important in traditional Eastern medicine and are increasingly used in the West. Acupuncture is predominantly practiced in China[6], followed by USA[7], Australia[8], and Europe[9].   

Family doctors are now learning how to integrate acupuncture into their services, offering you more options for pain management. Here’s how they do it:

1. Education and Training: Doctors receive training in acupuncture techniques and learn about its benefits. This training helps them feel confident in recommending and administering acupuncture.

2. Patient Communication: Doctors talk with patients about acupuncture, explaining what it involves and how it can help. They ensure patients understand what to expect during sessions.

3. Holistic Health Focus: Acupuncture is not just about pain relief. It can improve sleep, mental health, and overall quality of life. Doctors consider these broader health benefits when discussing treatment options with patients.

[Read more: Acupuncture for Holistic Cancer Treatment in Slovenia]

Addressing Common Concerns

Fear of Needles

Many people are nervous about needles. However, acupuncture needles are very thin, much finer than those used for injections or blood tests. Most patients find the process relaxing and painless once they try it. Doctors often start with just one needle to ease any anxiety.

Time and Cost

Scheduling time for acupuncture sessions can be challenging. The waiting time could be quite long. Also, acupuncture is not a “quick fix” and requires consecutive treatments, each session lasting around 30 minutes. While insurance coverage varies, the long-term benefits often justify the expense.

Side Effects

While all therapies come with risks and benefits, acupuncture is safe when performed by a trained practitioner using single-use, sterile needles. Relatively few complications have been reported.

The Benefits of Acupuncture

Acupuncture is a natural, non-pharmacologic treatment with minimal side effects. It is particularly beneficial for chronic pain conditions that haven’t responded well to other treatments. Patients often report not only reduced pain but also improvements in sleep, mood, and overall well-being.

There have been over 13,000 studies conducted in 60 countries, including hundreds of meta-analyses summarizing the results of thousands of human and animal studies. A wide variety of clinical areas have been studied, including pain, cancer, pregnancy, stroke, mood disorders, sleep disorders, and inflammation, to name a few.[Read more: Acupuncture: An Overview of Scientific Evidence]

As more family doctors embrace acupuncture, patients gain access to this ancient yet effective treatment. By overcoming skepticism and integrating acupuncture into their practices, doctors can offer a holistic approach to pain management and overall health. Whether you're struggling with chronic pain or looking for a natural way to enhance your well-being, acupuncture could be a valuable addition to your healthcare routine.

If you’re curious about how acupuncture can help you, talk to your family doctor or visit our TCM clinic. We're here to support your journey to better health through the timeless wisdom of acupuncture.

Reference: 

1. Ledford CJW, Crawford PF 3rd. Integrating Medical Acupuncture into Family Medicine Practice. Am Fam Physician. 2019 Jul 15;100(2):76-78. PMID: 31305038.

2. Kelly RB, Willis J. Acupuncture for Pain. Am Fam Physician. 2019 Jul 15;100(2):89-96. PMID: 31305037.

3. Vickers AJ, Vertosick EA, Lewith G, MacPherson H, Foster NE, Sherman KJ, Irnich D, Witt CM, Linde K; Acupuncture Trialists' Collaboration. Acupuncture for Chronic Pain: Update of an Individual Patient Data Meta-Analysis. J Pain. 2018 May;19(5):455-474. doi: 10.1016/j.jpain.2017.11.005. Epub 2017 Dec 2. PMID: 29198932; PMCID: PMC5927830.

4. Crawford P, Penzien DB, Coeytaux R. Reduction in Pain Medication Prescriptions and Self-Reported Outcomes Associated with Acupuncture in a Military Patient Population. Med Acupunct. 2017 Aug 1;29(4):229-231. doi: 10.1089/acu.2017.1234. PMID: 28874924; PMCID: PMC5580367.

5. Crawford PF 3rd, Rupert J, Jackson JT, Walkowski S, Ledford CJW. Relationship of Training in Acupuncture to Physician Burnout. J Am Board Fam Med. 2019 Mar-Apr;32(2):259-263. doi: 10.3122/jabfm.2019.02.180204. PMID: 30850462.

6. Zhang J, Shang H, Gao X, Ernst E. Acupuncture-related adverse events: a systematic review of the Chinese literature. Bull World Health Organ. 2010 Dec 1;88(12):915-921C. doi: 10.2471/BLT.10.076737. Epub 2010 Aug 27. PMID: 21124716; PMCID: PMC2995190.

7. Xu S, Wang L, Cooper E, Zhang M, Manheimer E, Berman B, Shen X, Lao L. Adverse events of acupuncture: a systematic review of case reports. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2013;2013:581203. doi: 10.1155/2013/581203. Epub 2013 Mar 20. PMID: 23573135; PMCID: PMC3616356.

8. Xue CC, Zhang AL, Lin V, Myers R, Polus B, Story DF. Acupuncture, chiropractic and osteopathy use in Australia: a national population survey. BMC Public Health. 2008 Apr 1;8:105. doi: 10.1186/1471-2458-8-105. PMID: 18377663; PMCID: PMC2322980.

9. Litscher, Gerhard, Litscher, Daniel. Modernization of Acupuncture Education in Europe and China: A Report from Austria. OBM Integrative and Complementary Medicine. 2016. https://doi.org/10.21926/obm.icm.1601002.