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Acupuncture
 


Acupuncture is part of a complete medical system called Chinese Medicine which was developed thousands of years ago and is comprised of acupuncture, chinese herbs, cupping, moxa, dietary recomendations and various body work.  Most anything that Western medicine can treat, Chinese Medicine can treat as well. In our culture, we tend to call it alternative medicine but Chinese medicine has been around for thousands of years while our allopathic medicine is only about 150 years old.   

Acupuncture involves the use of tiny, very fine, sterile, disposable needles which are inserted into various acupuncture points on the body.  There are hundreds of points on the body and depending on the ailment, points are selected and utilized.  Chinese Medicine is a holistic medicine and is based on the idea that if the body is balanced, there will not be illness and if there is disharmony in the body, it has the ability to heal itself through the use of acupuncture and herbs.

Western and Chinese Medicine can be utilized and integrated for optimal health.  However, acupuncture can treat many ailments without the use of pharmaceuticals, undesirable side effects and procedures. We also offer needle free treatment as an alternative.  

 

 

FAQ:

How does it work?

The classical Chinese explanation is that channels of energy, called "Chi" in Chinese, run in regular patterns through the body and over its surface. These energy channels, called meridians, are like rivers flowing through the body to irrigate and nourish the organs and tissues. An obstruction in the movement of these energy rivers is like a dam that backs up the flow in one part of the body and restricts it in others.

The meridians can be influenced by needling the acupuncture points; the acupuncture needles unblock the obstructions at the dams, and re-establish the regular flow through the meridians. Acupuncture treatments can therefore help the body's internal organs to correct imbalances in their digestion, absorption, and energy production activities, and in the circulation of their energy through the meridians.

The modern scientific explanation is that needling the acupuncture points stimulates the nervous system to release chemicals in the muscles, spinal cord, and brain. These chemicals will either change the experience of pain, or they will trigger the release of other chemicals and hormones which influence the body's own internal regulating system.

The improved energy and biochemical balance produced by acupuncture results in stimulating the body's natural healing abilities, and in promoting physical and emotional well-being.

What can acupuncture treat?

Acupuncture can be effective as the only treatment used, or as the support or adjunct to other medical treatment forms in many medical and surgical disorders.

The World Health Organization recognizes the use of acupuncture in the treatment of a wide range of medical problems, including:

Digestive disorders: gastritis and hyperacidity, spastic colon, constipation, diarrhea;

Respiratory disorders: sinusitis, sore throat, bronchitis, asthma, recurrent chest infections;

Neurological and muscular disorders: headaches, facial tics, neck pain, rib neuritis, frozen shoulder, tennis elbow, various forms of tendinitis, low back pain, sciatica, osteoarthritis;

Urinary, menstrual, and reproductive problems.

Acupuncture is particularly useful in resolving physical problems related to tension and stress and emotional conditions.

How many treatments are needed?

The number of treatments needed differs from person to person. For complex or long-standing conditions, one or two treatments a week for several months may be recommended. For acute problems, usually fewer visits are required, and for health maintenance, four sessions a year may be all that is necessary.

Are there any side effects?

Usually not. As energy is redirected in the body, internal chemicals and hormones are stimulated and healing begins to take place. Occasionally the original symptoms worsen for a few days, or other general changes in appetite, sleep, bowel or urination pattern, or emotional state may be triggered. These should not cause concern, as they are simply indications that the acupuncture is starting to work. It is quite common with the first one or two treatments to have a sensation of deep relaxation or even mild disorientation immediately following the treatment. These pass within a short time, and never require anything more than a bit of rest to overcome.

What are the needles like? Do they hurt?

People experience acupuncture needling differently. Most patients feel only minimal pain as the needles are inserted; some feel no pain at all. Once the needles are in place, there is no pain felt. Acupuncture needle are very thin and solid and are made from stainless steel (it was silver in ancient time). The point is smooth (not hollow with cutting edges like a hypodermic needle) and insertion through the skin is not as painful as injections or blood sampling. The risk of bruising and skin irritation is less than when using a hollow needle. Because the use of disposable needles, there is no risk of infection from the treatments.

Does acupuncture really work?

Yes. In the past 2000 years, more people have been successfully treated with acupuncture than with all other health modalities combined. Today acupuncture is practiced widely in Asia, the Russia, and in Europe. It is now being used more and more in America by patients and practitioners. Acupuncture treatments can be given at the same time other techniques are being used, such as conventional Western medicine, osteopathic or chiropractic prescriptions. It is important that your acupuncturist know everything that you are doing, so he or she can help you get the most benefit from all your treatments.

Should I be prepared on the day of treatment?

Yes. To enhance the value of a treatment, the following guidelines are important:

Do not eat an unusually large meal immediately before or after your treatment.

Do not over-exercise, engage in sexual activity, or consume alcoholic beverages within 6 hours before or after the treatment.

Plan your activities so that after the treatment you can get some rest, or at least not have to be working at top performance. This is especially important for the first few visits.

Continue to take any prescription medicines as directed by your regular doctor. Substance abuse (drugs and alcohol) especially in the week prior to treatment, will seriously interfere with the effectiveness of acupuncture treatment.

Remember to keep good mental or written notes of what your response is to the treatment. This is important for your doctor to know so that the follow-up treatments can be designed to best help you and your problem.
 

 


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