Traditional Chinese Medicine & Acupuncture
Traditional Chinese medicine is a holistic medical system which combines the use of acupuncture, herbal medicine, dietary modification, lifestyle change, tui na (bodywork) and a complex system of diagnosis to bring the body into balance. Traditional Chinese medicine originated in China over 3000 years ago and is now used around the world as an effective healing system, treating body, mind and spirit.
How does Acupuncture Work?
In recent years, science has determined that human beings are complex bioelectric systems. This understanding has been the foundation of acupuncture practice for several thousand years. Chinese medical theory is based on the concept of “qi” or vital energy. The qi circulates throughout the body along specific pathways, called meridians. There are twelve principal meridians, each connecting with a major organ system. Along these meridians are points at which the flow of qi is most accessible. As long as the energy flows freely through these meridians, health is maintained. When the flow of energy is disturbed for any reason, there is disruption in health, resulting in pain or illness. Stimulation of these acupuncture points influences the flow of qi, bringing the body back into balance. Modern scientific research has shown that acupuncture triggers the production of endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers. It also has been shown to positively affects the endocrine and nervous systems, helping the body achieve physical and emotional well being.
Is Acupuncture Safe?
When practiced by a licensed, trained acupuncturist, acupuncture is extremely safe. Only sterile, disposable hair-thin needles are used.
Is Acupuncture Painful?
Very different from hypodermic needles, acupuncture needles are hair-thin and solid. Sometimes a slight pricking sensation is felt as the needle enters the skin. Once the needle is in place, common sensations include heaviness and warmth in the general area. Most patients experience a deep state of relaxation and many fall asleep.
What Are The Benefits of Acupuncture?
Since acupuncture promotes the body’s natural healing ability, most conditions can be corrected or improved. Traditional Chinese Medicine is a comprehensive system of preventive health care and health maintenance. The effectiveness of acupuncture and Chinese Medicine is well documented and extends far beyond the conception that it is only useful for chronic pain management or as an analgesic.
How Many Treatments Will I Need?
Each patient is unique. The number and frequency of treatments will vary from patient to patient. Some symptoms are relieved within the first several treatments, while other more chronic conditions can take longer. While a specific problem is being worked on, you may visit your acupuncturist once or twice a week, and gradually reduce the frequency to once or twice a month. To simply maintain good health, you may limit your treatments to once every season – four times a year.
What Conditions Are Commonly Treated by Traditional Chinese Medicine?
By restoring physiological balance, Traditional Chinese Medicine treats many conditions. The National Institutes of Health and the World Health Organization have recognized TCM to treat nearly four-dozen common ailments.
- Musculo-Skeletal: arthritis/joint problems, athletic injuries, back pain, bursitis, carpal tunnel syndrome, fibromyalgia, knee pain, neck/shoulder pain, repetitive stress injuries, sciatica, tendonitis, trauma
- Respiratory: allergies, asthma, bronchitis, common cold, cough, flu, sinusitis, sore throat, smoking
- Digestive: bloating, colitis, constipation, Crohn’s Disease, diarrhea, gastric reflux, hemorrhoids, indigestion, nausea, stomachache, ulcer
- Cardiovascular: angina, arrhythmia, high blood pressure, palpitations, poor circulation, swelling of hands/feet
- Emotions: anxiety, depression, insomnia, irritability, stress
- Gynecological/Genito-Urinary: endometriosis, hot flashes, infertility, mastitis, menstrual pain & irregularity, PMS, difficult urination, prostatitis, sexual dysfunction, vaginal or urinary tract infections
