Acupuncture is one of the oldest forms of healing. Originating in China thousands of years ago, acupuncture is currently considered a part of the overall practice of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). The practice of acupuncture involves inserting thin, tiny needles into several points in the body. The needles are massaged or tapped into the body a certain way to change the life energy of the body. In the United States, acupuncture is used as part of complementary medicine and alternative medicine, also known as naturopathic medicine. According to the 2007 National Health Interview Survey, an estimated 3.1 million US adults and 150,000 children had used acupuncture in the previous year. When seeking a form of naturopathic medicine or alternative medicine treatment, it is important to check a practitioner’s credentials to ensure he or she is licensed to practice acupuncture. Currently, most states require a license, although requirements can vary depending on the state. Those who are interested in learning more about the art and practice of acupuncture should study at an alternative medicine school or college of natural health that offers degree programs in this specific field of study.
There are several conditions treated with acupuncture. According to www.healthnews.com, the following conditions are the top twelve medical issues that are treated by acupuncture:
1. Bone pain / muscle pain / joint pain
2. Cardiovascular issues
3. Childhood illnesses
4. Head and sensory disorders
5. Endocrine ailments
6. Gastrointestinal and urinary problems
7. Obstetrics and Gynecology issues
8. Infectious diseases
9. Liver and gall bladder issues
10. Mental disorders, emotional disorders, and sexual disorders
11. Respiratory problems
12. Skin problems
Potential students who are interested in learning about the practice of acupuncture can attend a college of natural health or alternative medicine school in order to learn about the healing ways of acupuncture and become licensed to practice this form of healing. The Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine (SCNM), a leading naturopathic college located in Tempe, AZ, offers a dual degree program with the Phoenix Institute of Herbal Medicine and Acupuncture (PIHMA). Students enrolled in both schools have the chance to earn their Naturopathic Medicine degree at a college of natural health while obtaining a Master’s Degree in Acupuncture or Oriental Medicine. According to the Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine, about 10 percent of the students enrolled at this naturopathic college also enroll in the Pima Institute of Herbal Medicine and Acupuncture in order to obtain two degrees. Having a dual degree from SCNM, a college of natural health, and the Phoenix Institute of Herbal Medicine and Acupuncture will allow a graduate to practice acupuncture under his or her Naturopathic Doctor license in Arizona, Maine, Vermont, Kansas, New Hampshire, Washington D.C., and Puerto Rico. Completing the Master’s program in acupuncture at the Phoenix Institute of Herbal Medicine and Science also allows students to sit for the National Certification Exam (NCCAOM) for acupuncture.
According to the Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine, this naturopathic college has a Department of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine focusing its curriculum on a program that will “…train students to practice safely and competently while providing basic competency in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for diagnosis and treatment of common disorders using acupuncture.”