What is traditional Chinese medicine?
Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is one of the oldest
medical practices, and some evidence suggests that it dates
as far back as 5,000 years. The ancient Chinese developed
this unique medical system through careful and diligent
study of the body, mind, emotions, spirit, and the natural
world around them. This system is based on the idea that
pathways of energy, or “qi”, run in regular
patterns through the body and over its surface. These channels
are called meridians and they flow like rivers 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, creating imbalance and pain. Energy can also
become depleted as a result of stress, overwork, chronic
illness, etc., and this may cause the water in the stream
to dry up and eventually stop flowing.
Acupuncture needles are used as conductors, and when placed
in specific areas that have increased conductivity, they
can tap into the various energy pathways to correct imbalances
and clear blockages. Acupuncture works with the body’s
innate ability to heal itself; once pathways have been
unblocked, the body’s natural healing response can
take place. Every individual is made up of a unique combination
of constitution, health history, family, environment, diet,
emotions, beliefs, thought patterns and so on, therefore
every treatment is specifically tailored to you as a whole
being.
Aside from acupuncture, traditional Chinese medicine may
also include massage, moxibustion (heat therapy with the
herb Artemesia), herbal formulas, nutrition and lifestyle
recommendations. Other gentler techniques such as tapping
or massaging along the meridians may be used for children
or needle-shy people.
What should I expect from my first acupuncture
treatment?
The first treatment is my opportunity to get to know you better; I will complete
a detailed intake in order to learn more about your symptoms and how they many
be interrelated. Even the smallest detail may shed light on the root cause of
your condition. In addition to listening, my other diagnostic tools are observation
and palpating the body, particularly the pulse. We have time for questions and
explanations, especially if it is your first experience with acupuncture. When
you are comfortable, I will insert the needles and then allow you to relax for
about 20 to 30 minutes.
What can
traditional Chinese medicine treat?
The World Health Organization recognizes acupuncture
as an effective treatment for many disorders, including the
following:
- Gynecological
disorders, such as irregular
or heavy periods, infertility, PMS, post-partum
recovery, and
menopausal
symptoms.
- Muscular/skeletal disorders, such as acute or chronic
pain, whiplash, lower back pain, shoulder pain, knee
pain, and arthritis pain.
- Hypertension and migraines.
- Anxiety, depression, insomnia and other mood disorders.
- Gastrointestinal disorders, such as chronic constipation
or diarrhea, colitis, indigestion, gastritis, and irritable
bowel syndrome.
- Urogenital disorders, such as chronic urinary tract
infections or incontinence.
- Respiratory disorders, such as allergies, asthma, bronchitis,
and sinusitis.
- Addictions, such as cigarette smoking (please inquire
about our smoking cessation package).
*Why wait until you are sick? Acupuncture can be used
preventatively, especially if you are prone to frequent
colds or flu.
*Acupuncture is remarkably relaxing and works well as
a technique for rejuvenation and stress relief.
Does acupuncture
hurt?
Because every person is made up of such a complex
array of life experiences, it is no wonder that people
feel and respond to needling in very different ways. The
typical description includes feeling a slight pinch or
pressure, which is then accompanied by warmth, tingling,
or a heavy sensation at the site of the needle. Many people
experience a deep sense of release and relaxation during
and at the end of the treatment.
For needle-shy patients I may start off our treatments
with non-insertive techniques and acupressure until we
build enough trust to use needles. These are always options
in the event that the fear of needles cannot be overcome.
Is acupuncture
safe?
The needles are all sterile, pre-packaged and
used one time only. The needles are hair-fine, with a solid
center unlike the hollow hypodermic needles used to take
blood. There is usually no marking on the skin after the
needles are removed.
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