acupuncture

n. a form of complementary and alternative medicine in which fine needles are inserted into the body at specific points to relieve pain, induce anesthesia (acupuncture anesthesia), or treat disease. It is based on the concept in traditional Chinese medicine that “meridians,” or pathways, conduct a life-force energy known as chi between places on the skin and the body’s organ systems. Western scientists are unable to explain specifically how acupuncture produces its effects but theorize that the needling sites may be related to trigger points in the gate-control theory of pain or may stimulate the release of endogenous opioids. The technique is highly popular in many Western societies and has been deemed appropriate by the World Health Organization for use in treating more than 40 medical conditions. Compare acupressure. —acupuncturist n.

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Psychology term of the day

November 22nd 2024

respiratory disorder

a general term for any disorder involving one or more components of the respiratory system, such as the diaphragm, lungs, trachea, larynx, or nasal cavities. See also asthma; chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.