About acupuncture and traditional Chinese medicine
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) includes a variety of different techniques and disciplines, including Acupuncture, Acupressure, use of traditional Chinese herbal therapy, Tai Chi, cupping among many others.
Acupuncture originated in China over 2,500 years ago and is a primary and complementary health care modality throughout the world. Chinese Medicine views disease as the result of an imbalance or blockage in the body’s natural energy flow. It is a method of balancing and building the body’s energy, known as “qi” (pronounced “chee”). Acupuncturists insert sterile needles into unique points that lay on particular pathways called channels that circulate energy throughout the body.
What conditions does acupuncture treat
Acupuncture is used mainly to relieve discomfort associated with a variety of diseases and conditions, including:
- Pain
- Alergies
- Fibromyalgia
- Headaches, including tension headaches and migraines
- Labor pain
- Lower back pain
- Neck pain
- Osteoarthritis
- Menstrual cramps
- Gynecologic Disorders
- Respiratory disorders, such as allergic rhinitis
- Anxiety and depression
- Insomnia
- Digestive Disorders
- Many others
How does acupuncture work
Chinese medicine calls the energy that flows through the body qi. Chinese medicine practitioners believe qi disruptions create imbalances in the body’s energy that lead to illness.
Some forms of acupuncture aim to rebalance qi with needles that touch acupuncture points (acupoints) throughout the body. There are hundreds of acupoints in the body along 14 major meridians, also called energy-carrying channels.
The needles stimulate the body’s existing systems to:
- React to an illness or symptom.
- Rebalance the body.
- Release natural chemicals, such as endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers, and neurotransmitters, chemicals that control nerve impulses.
What is my first visit like
When you arrive for your first acupuncture appointment, you will be asked to complete a comprehensive intake form. The acupuncture intake form asks questions about your current state of health, past illnesses, and family history. These questions are important because the holistic approach of Oriental medicine takes everything into account. Your current symptoms may not seem related to past health issues, but our bodies are complex landscapes and everything that happens to them leaves its mark.
After reviewing your intake form, we will discuss your condition and examine your case. The acupuncture points chosen will depend on your condition, but you can expect approximately 20 or more needles.
If acupuncture is determined to be benificial for you, the needles are inserted, we will leave you to lie comfortably for 15-20 minutes with the needles in place. Sometimes, we will apply massage therapy on patients during the acupuncture sessions. Many people find acupuncture treatment deeply relaxing, and it is common for patients to fall asleep during this time.