Acupuncture Treatments
Acupuncture originated in China over 5,000 years ago. It is based on the belief that health is determined by a balanced flow of Qi, the vital life energy present in all living organisms. According to acupuncture theory, Qi is circulated in the body along fourteen energy pathways, called meridians, each linked to specific internal organs and organ systems. There are hundreds of acupoints within the meridian system that can be stimulated to enhance the flow of Qi. When special acupuncture needles are inserted into these acupoints, they help to correct and rebalance the flow of energy and consequently restore health and avoid pain.
Uses of acupuncture:
The use of acupuncture is to elevate one’s immune system therefore initiate a person’s healing ability to right itself from wrong. The application of acupuncture is not only limited to pain management but also organ system problems ranging from colitis, to bloating stomach to vertigo just to name a few.
Acupuncture treatment is believed to be the most effective way to treat pain, natural relief of lower back pain, joint pain, arthritis, headaches, other pain-causing conditions such as PMS. Acupuncture is also used to treat infertility, digestive problems, anxiety, depression, low libido etc. Please contact us for further information.
How does acupuncture work?
The classical Chinese explanation is that channels of energy 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 tissues. An obstruction in the movement of these energy rivers is like a dam that backs up in the 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.
Acupuncture is a system which can influence three areas of health care: promotion of health and well-being, prevention of illness, treatment of various medical conditions.
While acupuncture is often associated with pain control, in the hands of a well-trained practitioner it has much broader applications. Acupuncture can be effective as the only treatment used, or as the support or adjunct to other medial 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.
Please fill out our Health History form below before your first visit.
How many treatments will I need?
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.
Are there any side effects to the treatment?
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 patterns, 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 needles are very thin and solid and are made from stainless steel. The point is smooth (not hollow with cuttingedges 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.
Disposable needles are only used, there is no risk of infection from the treatments.
Does acupuncture really work?
Yes. In the past 2,000 years, more people have been successfully treated with acupuncture than with all other health modalities combined. Acupuncture treatments can be given at the same time other techniques are being used, such as conventional Western medicine. 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.
Do I have to believe in acupuncture for it to work?
No. Acupuncture is used successfully on cats, dogs, horses and other animals. These animal patients do not understand or believe in the process that helps them get better. A positive attitude toward wellness may reinforce the effects of the treatment received, just as a negative attitude may hinder the effects of acupuncture or any other treatment. A neutral attitude (“I don’t know if I really believe in this.”) will not block the treatment results.
Is acupuncture covered by health insurance?
Some insurance companies currently cover acupuncture services. Contact your provider.
Please fill out our Health History form below before your first visit.
Download this patient information form, fill it in and bring it to our office.
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