Quote:
“The entire universe is an oscillation of the forces of Yin and Yang.”
—from the Nei Ching
About the Field:
Although no conclusive historical data is available, most researchers trace the roots of modern acupuncture to the Chinese Emperor Huang-ti (2697-2596 B.C.) By most estimates the practice of some forms of have exited for 5,000 years or more. Acupuncture is one of the main forms of treatment in traditional Chinese medicine, and involves the use of sharp, thin needles inserted into the body at very specific points. This process is believed to adjust and alter the body’s energy flow into healthier patterns, and is used to treat a wide variety of illnesses and health conditions.
It is reported that Chinese hospitals routinely use acupuncture as the only pain-killer during major surgery. Scientists are studying the mechanisms and efficacy of acupuncture. According to the protocols of evidence-based medicine, there is good evidence that acupuncture is effective in treating nausea and chronic low back pain, and moderate evidence for neck pain and headache.
On the Job:
Acupuncturists analyze patient symptoms using Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), then insert a series of needles into the flesh of patients at meridians or acupuncture points. They may also utilize heat sources such as lamps or burning moxa, give topical massage, or recommend dietary and herbal remedies and supplements.
How To Get There:
Licensed acupuncturists must have completed a minimum of 2 years professional college/university education: 60 semester hours, including 9 in the Biosciences. They must then satisfactorily complete an accredited acupuncture program (3-year professional training program) registered by the New York State Education Department as licensure qualifying. They must demonstrate proof of English proficiency, and also take and pass the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine’s (NCCAOM) Acupuncture, Foundations of Oriental Medicine and Point Location Modules examinations and the Clean Needle Technique course.
Lifestyle:
Acupuncturists usually work in private offices, clinics, and hospitals. Demand for acupuncture is drastically higher in metropolitan areas than in rural or suburban settings. Successful acupuncturists should show genuine interest in the physical, mental, and spiritual well being of their patients. This is not a job that involved significant travel, though some patients may want to be treated in their own homes.
You are:
• Strong communicator
• Strong Science
• Problem Solver
• Think Outside the Box
• Accurate
• Good listener
• Self-directed
• Decision-maker
• Independent
• Confident
• Connected with Eastern spiritual philosophy
Salary:
Starting: $55,000
After 5 years: $60,000
After 10 years: $120,000
Tools of the Trade:
Acupuncturists use a variety of materials to help their patients heal, including surgical steel needles, herbs, ear seeds, electrical stimulating machines, moxa, human anatomy models, charts of pressure points, cups, Tuina massage oils, and liniments.
Related Professions:
Internal Medicine
Physical Therapy
Health Professions
Chiropractic
