WHAT IS ACUPUNCTURE?
Acupuncture is a primary health care modality that has flourished in China for over 2,500 years and is widely used throughout Asia and in Europe. It is considered one of the newest primary health care provisions in this country. Acupuncture has grown as both western and oriental health care providers, medical researchers, and the public experience it, integrate it in their health care and spread its benefits.
Far more than a pain relief technique of inserting tiny threadlike needles along energetic points of the body, acupuncture’s complex system of diagnostic procedures take into consideration you as a whole, not just isolated symptoms. Acupuncture is practiced based on discerning the “root and branch” or the cause and the cause and symptoms, and treating accordingly. Modern acupuncturists may use a number of modalities to treat; certain physical therapies and equipment, herbal medicine, moxibustion and nutrition, as well as the fine needles.
Acupuncture treats to strengthen your physical body, prevent disease, control pain, and achieve longevity. You will find the aim, as practiced in oriental medicine in general, is not limited to ridding or relieving symptoms. The larger picture is to increase both the quality of your life and your ability to function.
HOW DOES ACUPUNCTURE WORK?
Acupuncture is a therapy which uses natural laws and energetics with the application of needles and pressure to specific “points” on the body. These points are grouped along specific pathways or channels that cross the body. As long as the energy flows freely through these pathways, health is maintained. When the flow of energy is either absent, deficient, interrupted, excessive or blocked in an area, health is disrupted, resulting in illness or pain. By stimulating appropriate acupuncture points along these channels, the energy is released and regulated, and health is restored.
Studies indicate that acupuncture influences the central and peripheral nervous system. Evidence shows it releases endorphins from the brain which make acupuncture particularly effective in pain control. Among a host of factors, acupuncture affects sugar, cholesterol, and triglyceride levels in the blood, the functioning of the gastrointestinal system and the activity of the endocrine system. Acupuncture works with the body, harmonizing and balancing energy. It improves circulation and allows the body to heal itself more quickly and more completely.
WHAT SHOULD YOU EXPECT DURING TREATMENT?
Most patients find the treatment very relaxing, which brings on a feeling of well-being. Most are surprised at how comfortable they are during treatment and how easily the needles are placed. Some people even go to sleep during treatment. A patient may feel a slight sensation upon entry and then pressure or a “dull” or “surging” reaction when the needle reaches the “chi” or correct point. The tiny thin needles are specifically designed to be virtually painless. Rest assured, the needles are far different from the hypodermic needles used in injections.
IS ACUPUNCTURE SAFE?
One of the great advantages of acupuncture is the absence of serious side effects. Needles generally do not cause bleeding on entry or removal, and are one time disposable needles.
WHAT IF YOU ABSOLUTELY HATE NEEDLES?
We will use one of several other methods that do not require the use of needles, such as finger pressure, laser, or electric microcurrent stimulation.
HOW MANY TREATMENTS ARE NECESSARY?
Each person is unique with an individualized treatment plan. No two conditions or people respond exactly the same. The length of treatment depends on the type, severity and duration of the condition, and the physical state at the time of treatment. Both the examination and your response can give us an idea. In short or lengthy cases, I do an evaluation with you to assess your progress. In order to get the best therapeutic results, it is important to follow the treatment plan and recommendations carefully. It is important to complete the course of therapy to restore health.
Our further programs for health maintenance are designed and aimed to prevent and promote health and longevity, as well as vitality to the body.
IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS…
about whether or not acupuncture is for you or about any of our programs, I am available for a courtesy consultation in person or by phone as time permits. Also, about your response to treatment: If you have any problems, concerns, questions, or emergencies, please call me. When my answering service or machine responds to your call, please leave a message. I call in for messages or they are relayed to me. Your call will be returned in a timely manner during business hours. (828) 265-0001.
