<span title="Acupuncture/Acupressure...">Acupuncture/Acupressure.....</span> anyone here one?

Question

lately i've become really interested in acupuncture and acupressure, chinese and alternative medicine.

if anyone here practices those things, what are the requirements to becoming a licensed acupuncturist? thanks!

Answer 1

To counter the previous answer, there are several studies from Germany, Australia and Japan that show that acupuncture works through biochemical means - release of NO in the puncture area, release of enkephalins in the spinal segment, stimulation of the hypothalamus.  Also, there are several studies showing that acupuncture is better than placebo - as long as the studies are properly done.  I say this as a &quot;western&quot; or &quot;conventional&quot; MD who has studied acupuncture.  (P.S. - look for the work of Gabriel Stux and Bruce Pomeranz, both &quot;western&quot; docs who have done extensive research on the mechanisms of acupuncture)

Anyone who says acupuncture has no scientific basis is simply, in all honesty, not examining the volume of evidence with an open mind.

Now, the requirements to being a licensed acupuncturist can vary from country to country and state to state in the US.  In my country, the Philippines, there are no absolute requirements yet but one MUST be an MD to legally practice it (or at least under the supervision of one).

In the united states, one can look for the NCCAOM (http://www.nccaom.org) or National Certification Commission for Acupuncture for details in your own state.

The most common way to become a licensed acupuncturist is to complete a masters&#039; degree course in an accredited institution.  Also, others who have completed their education in China or elsewhere may apply.

Answer 2

I practice acupressure. Or specifically Shiatsu. I will be getting a License for massage therapy. Sorry I don&#039;t know what you need for acupuncture. Good luck!

Answer 3

I hope you don&#039;t mind being unethical.  Acupuncture has no healing effects outside the realm of placebos.