Acupuncture
What is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is part of the practice of Traditional Chinese Medicine. The goal is to energetically balance the body. Acupuncture involves the insertion of fine needles into the body at precise locations shown to be effective at treating specific health problems. These points have been mapped by the Chinese for over 2000 years. Recently, electromagnetic research has confirmed their locations.
Acupuncture is used to activate the bodies vital energy or "Qi" (pronounced "chee") to restore balance. Hair thin needles are inserted at specially chosen points along channels which operate as energetic pathways for Qi flow. You might think of these pathways as similar to the nervous system or vascular system in the body. These channels of energy flow beneath the skin and throughout the body and connect to the major organs.
Does it hurt?
Acupuncture needles are extremely thin and flexible and are virtually painless when inserted in most body locations. One may feel a slight tingling or heavy sensation at the location which is associated with the arrival of Qi. Sterile, disposable needles are used and are generally left in place for 20 to 30 minutes, depending on the diagnosis. Acupuncture needles may be electrically stimulated with microcurrents to more strongly promote the flow of Qi. Sometimes moxabustion is used on points. This involves burning special herbs near the area to warm and increase blood flow. Patients often report feeling relaxed or even euphoric after a treatment.
How many treatments will I need?
This depends on your condition, how long you have had it and your lifestyle. Sometimes a single treatment may be all that is necessary for an acute condition. Usually more chronic conditions require a series of 5 to 15 treatments. Some degenerative conditions may require many treatments over time.
How should I prepare for a treatment?
The best thing to do is relax! If you have any concerns, please ask. Come to your treatment knowing that it is your time to heal. It is best not to come on an empty stomach or after a particularly heavy meal. Wear loose comfortable clothing if possible.
What can acupuncture treat?
Acupuncture is a complete medical system and can treat many things. The World Health Organization (WHO) has said that acupuncture is particularly effective at treating the following:
* Ear, nose, throat disorders: earaches, toothaches, sinusitis, rhinitis, laryngitis
* Musculoskeletal disorders: tennis elbow, frozen shoulder, TMJ, sciatica, low back pain, arthritis, carpal tunnel, fibromyalgia
* Respiratory disorders: colds and flu, bronchitis,asthma, allergies
* Gastrointestinal disorders: nausea, indigestion, diarrhea, constipation, ulcers, colitis
* Circulatory disorders: high cholesterol, hypertension, arteriosclerosis, angina pectoris
* Gynecological disorders: menstrual irregularities, infertility, endometriosis, menopausal syndrome, PMS
* Urogenital disorders: cystitis, stress incontinence, neurogenic bladder, prostatitis, BPH
* Psychoemotional disorders and neurological disorders: depression, anxiety, insomnia, headache, migraine, trigeminal neuralgia, intercostal neuralgia, post stroke paralysis, dizziness, tinnitus