Acupuncture has been a recognized form of treatment in the United States for several decades, as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved the use of acupuncture needles by trained professionals in 1996. However, the treatment is far older than that. In fact, acupuncture has a history that dates back thousands of years, with roots around the world.

Early Beginnings

Archaeologists have found sharpened stones and tools dating back to the Stone Age that they believe were used to puncture parts of the body. Some have interpreted this as the early beginnings of acupuncture, but other experts are more reluctant, instead believing that this practice was most commonly used to drain abscesses.

The foundation for modern acupuncture was established in the ancient Chinese medical text Huang Di Nei Jing, which is translated as “The Yellow Emperor's Classic of Internal Medicine.” This text, written around 100 BCE, recorded details of acupuncture treatment for the first time. The practice then changed over the years before the template for modern acupuncture was set out in “The Great Compendium of Acupuncture and Moxibustion,” written at some point between 1368 and 1644 in China. Acupuncture eventually spread over several centuries from China to neighboring countries such as Japan and Korea.

Modern Acupuncture 

During the 17th century, Western countries became aware of acupuncture when European explorers discovered it and eventually described the procedure in European medical journals. It became particularly popular in Europe during the 19th century.

In 1971, a member of the U.S. press corps was in China preparing for President Nixon’s visit when they received acupuncture as part of an emergency treatment. The process was then detailed in The New York Times, which helped raise interest in acupuncture among the American public. In 1997, the National Institutes of Health acknowledged the effectiveness of acupuncture for potentially treating several conditions.

Forest Park Chiropractic & Acupuncture in Cincinnati, OH, has been serving the area for more than 30 years. The friendly and welcoming practice is led by Dr. Reed Moeller, who was rated the Top Chiropractor in the area for 2015 and 2016. They offer a wide range of services, including pain relief, wellness treatments, and chiropractic treatment for children and adults alike. To schedule an appointment, call (513) 742-0880 or visit their website.