Auricular Acupuncture

by Maxine McKew

Auricular Acupuncture

Acupuncture performed on the ear is known as Auricular acupuncture. An ancient medicinal practice originating in China, Acupuncture is better known as the science of healing by inserting fine needs at the specific meridian points in the body.

Of late, there are numerous groups of acupuncturists that specialize in one or more areas of this traditional Chinese healing science. Auricular acupuncturists focus on the acupuncture techniques of the ear and certified acupuncturists are familiar with over 200 meridian points that are known to exist on the outer ear for providing relief.  However, it is of vital importance to be informed that acupuncture needles are never put into the auditory canal but specific super fine needles are only inserted into the fleshy part of the ear or auricle (pinna).

The insertion of fine needles on the outer ear is known to help cure a wide variety of diseases. This auricular stimulation enhances the blood flow in the body.   Each point has a correspondence to the kidney, liver, shoulders, hips, knee, heart, lungs and other parts of the body. The needles that are inserted into the ear can even stimulate the brain or activate a particular organ whose connecting nerve has been activated.

Many people opt for auricular acupuncture as a therapy form for drug and alcohol rehabilitation or as a support system with other rehab therapies.  This form of acupuncture is also know to relive muscle and joint pain,  and vitalize organs and the brain apart from numerous therapeutic effects. The standard size of the needles is 3 mm to 5 mm and they are inserted for about 10 to 20 minutes as per the diagnostics of the therapist.

As with any form of acupuncture, each point in the outer ear is related to other parts of the body.  The density of acupoints in the outer ear is extremely high which explains the need for the specialization of auricular acupuncture therapy.