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Testing, Testing 123: Phlebotomy Basics

When my mother underwent chemotherapy, we spent a lot of time visiting the phlebotomy lab for blood testing. I was always impressed by how easily the phlebotomist was able to find and puncture a vein to draw blood on the first try. I knew there had to be a method to it, and was astounded by how effortless and painless they made the process. It led me to research a lot about blood tests, from drawing to the actual screening. I've created this site to share what I've learned in the hopes of teaching others. The more you understand, the more control you can have over your own health care.

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Testing, Testing 123: Phlebotomy Basics

Acupuncture Treatments Might Help Reduce Your Anxiety

by Francisco Arnold

If you suffer from anxiety, you've probably tried different types of treatments, such as therapy, medication, and relaxation techniques. If those don't seem to help, you may want to try acupuncture. Acupuncture can be taken along with your usual treatments, and you might find it beneficial. This is what you might expect if you take acupuncture treatments for anxiety.

Why Acupuncture Might Be Helpful For Anxiety

The idea behind acupuncture is that it normalizes energy flow through your body. Acupuncture is a form of Chinese medicine that heals the energy body that could be the seat of disorders and medical problems.

Acupuncture is based on the idea that energy, or chi, flows through your body along specific meridians or channels, and if one of the meridians is blocked, then that can lead to a disorder such as anxiety. The goal of treatment is to stimulate specific points on your body with a needle to unblock chi. When normal chi flow resumes, your body may then be able to restore balance to your system and reduce anxiety.

How An Acupuncture Treatment Is Given

Treatment is given in a relaxing atmosphere similar to the way you get a massage. You relax on a table while the practitioner inserts thin needles in the precise places on your body that are indicated for the treatment of anxiety.

There is an established correspondence between medical conditions and acupuncture points, so it's necessary that the practitioner know you want to be treated for anxiety. The needles used are thin so they don't cause discomfort, and they're long so they can be vibrated or swayed if the practitioner thinks it's necessary for treatment.

Also, new sterile needles are used with each treatment, so there is no risk of coming in contact with contaminated equipment. Acupuncture is considered safe and has a low risk of bad side effects, but the practitioner will want to know your complete medical history first to make sure you're a good candidate for treatment.

The length of a session varies by how many needles you have inserted, but it will probably take less than an hour. You may not feel a big difference after one treatment. Instead, multiple treatments are usually recommended since acupuncture works gently and gradually to bring about a reduction in your anxiety.

If you have treatments on a weekly basis, you should notice an improvement in your symptoms over a few months if this alternative type of treatment is going to be effective for you. For more information, contact a clinic that provides acupuncture treatment.

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