Acupuncture
Acupuncture is used to restore and maintain health, as well as to prevent illness. In Chinese medicine it is told that ill health is associated with an imbalance of vital energy (known as Chi).
When a person produces symptoms, mental or physical, such as headaches, arthritis, insomnia, depression, digestive problems etc, it is a sign that there is an imbalance of Chi.
Acupuncture treatment can direct and re-balance Chi in the body using very fine needles, and occasionally applying herbs to specifically chosen Acupuncture points. This improves the general level of health, as well as dealing with the underlying causes of the symptom.
Acupuncture treatment is effective for many common complaints including:
- Unexplained infertility
- Emotional trauma breavement, relationship problems, work place problems
- headaches & migraines
- menstrual disorders
- digestive problems
- anxiety & stress related depression
- heart problems
- arthritis
- skin disorders
- Joint problems/sports injuries
- psiatica and other back problems
The BAcC encourages research into acupuncture, which is aimed at improving the evidence base and demonstrating the value of traditional acupuncture.
The BAcC has a research strategy that covers a range of research areas and methodologies.
The aim is to encourage research-mindedness among the members of the acupuncture profession and to provide support and guidance on research matters both for the profession and for the general public.
The BAcC also aims to develop the evidence base for acupuncture treatment through promoting research into the clinical effectiveness and safety of acupuncture. In this work, it is hoped that it is possible to develop innovative research models, both quantitative and qualitative, which reflect better the interactive and dynamic elements of traditional acupuncture and the patient-centred nature of the therapeutic relationship.
In addition audit and outcome protocols will be developed for use in assessing the practice of acupuncture treatment in the UK and the outcomes of treatment in everyday clinical practice.
The BAcC works with closely aligned acupuncture research organisations: the Acupuncture Research Resources Centre, the Foundation for Traditional Chinese Medicine and the Oriental Medical Research Trust (OMRT).
The BAcC fosters the development of a culture of research in colleges by promoting college-based and student research projects. The BAcC also welcomes involvement with academic research groups, medical acupuncturists and others within the NHS. For BAcC members, grants for small research projects are available.