An ancient practice in the modern world

Acupuncture is the oldest among many kinds of therapeutic methods to address a variety of ailments. It is originated in East Asian countries more than 4,000 years ago. Although the history of acupuncture dates back to ancient times, it has great popularity and is gaining greater scientific consideration in modern medical science.
Now-a-days, acupuncture is practiced in more than 150 countries of Asia including Bangladesh and also in Europe and the USA. With increasing global interest in acupuncture, it is now widely used in the treatment of painful and nervous diseases, gastrointestinal diseases, respiratory diseases, abdominal diseases, heart diseases, ENT disease and physiologic disorders, and some open injuries etc.
Scientifically it has been determined that endomorphin-1, beta-endorphin, encephalin and serotonin levels increase in blood and brain tissue through acupuncture application which help in pain relief, sedation, boost immunity  and recovery in motor function.
Like any therapeutic practice, acupuncture also needs skill and knowledge. In order to produce skilled manpower, Gono Bishwabidyalay has started fellowship programme on acupuncture. As there are some acupuncture centres in Bangladesh run by unskilled people, it is crucial to get the service from someone who knows it.

The writers are visiting faculty at Gono Bishwabidyalay, Savar.