Acupuncture treatment in Cleveland for Attention-Deficit Hyperactive Disorder (ADHD) has become fairly popular in recent years. The question, does it work? This article will strive to answer that question and will explore acupuncture as well as how it is used in the treatment of ADHD.
Acupuncture is a complementary and alternative medicine that has been around for thousands of years. It has made its way into Western healing culture. Acupuncture involves the use of extremely thin needles inserted into strategic points on the body by a qualified and skilled practitioner. Addressing ADHD via acupuncture is a relatively new type of medical approach in the treatment of this condition. In the United States, the therapy has been used since the early 1970s. When considering this treatment for ADHD, one needs to consult with a doctor first.
Ear acupuncture or auricular acupuncture is known to be the most effective type of acupuncture procedure for ADHD. As you might guess, auricular acupuncture is done on the ear although this procedure usually also involves the insertion of needles on other parts of the body. In Chinese medicine, ADHD is a disorder caused by several possible factors including orifice blockage by blood stasis or phlegm, insufficient nourishment of the Shen (spirit), or heat agitating the spirit. This is completely different to the Western medicine theory that ADHD is caused by a complex neurodevelopmental disorder.
Research has demonstrated that a combo of selected Chinese herbs and acupuncture in treating ADHD in both adults and children works effectively for mild types of ADHD and can be used as an adjunctive treatment for more severe cases of ADHD. This type of treatment plan is believed to help reduce the need for large doses of medications in the treatment of severe ADHD.
People seriously considering acupuncture for ADHD should talk to a a practitioner of Traditional Chinese Medicine or a registered acupuncturist. These days, several health insurance companies now provide coverage for acupuncture treatment.
How is Acupuncture Done?
It is a good idea to know what to expect from acupuncture before actually undergoing it for treating ADHD. The treatment commences with the acupuncturist locating the areas where the needles are to be inserted. The patient will then be asked to remove any clothing in the parts of the body where the needles are to be inserted. if the patient needs to remove more clothing a sheet, gown, or towel will be used to cover him/her. The acupuncturist then begins to carefully insert the needles into the targeted areas. The needles are very fine and for a majority of patients, no pain is felt when they are stuck into the body; a few however, have reported feeling a little discomfort in the site of the treatment. Five to twenty needles may be used; once the effect of the needles kick in, the patient may experience a deep, aching feeling.
There are acupuncturists who, in addition to the needles, may also use heat or mild electrical currents to augment the effect of the treatment. The needles are usually moved or twirled once placed. They will stay in place for around 20 to 30 minutes while the patient lies still and relaxes. During the needle removal, there should be no discomfort felt.
There are patients who have reported feeling completely relaxed while others feel fully energized after a treatment. Each patient responds differently from the procedure and for some, acupuncture may not even work at all. After three weeks of treatment, most ADHD patients will notice either significant or slight improvements in their symptoms.
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