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Medical Acupuncture

Medical Acupuncture Introduction

Acupuncture is just one of the elements that make up the discipline often referred to as traditional Chinese medicine. Traditional Chinese medicine, or TCM, is a combination of physical, mental, and spiritual practices that include techniques such as massage therapy and acupuncture, along with herbal medicine and various forms of mind-body exercise such as Daijiquan (Tai Chi Chuan) and Qigong (Chi Gong).

In many states, licensed acupuncturists are independently licensed health-care practitioners. In some states, physicians who obtain additional training and qualification in acupuncture are allowed to perform acupuncture within the scope of their license to practice medicine.

  • The term medical acupuncture is used to denote the practice of acupuncture performed by a licensed physician.


  • The state requirements for the practice of acupuncture vary. Be sure that any practitioner you visit has met the requirements for your state.


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