What is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is a primary health care modality that has flourished in China for over 2,500 years and is used world-wide. 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 technique of inserting tiny threadlike needles along meridian lines of the body, acupuncture’s complex system of diagnostic corollaries take into consideration you as a whole, not just isolated symptoms.
Acupuncture is practiced based on discerning a “pattern of disharmony” and treating accordingly. 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 meridians 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 meridians, 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, reduces inflammation, and allows the body to heal itself more quickly and more completely.
Is Acupuncture Safe?
Yes. Because acupuncture treatment is drug-free, you avoid the risk of drugs which can cause many side-effects or dependency. During each acupuncture session, your acupuncturist can adjust the treatment according to your symptoms so that you receive constant monitoring of any changes. Acupuncturists receive extensive training and are licensed by strict state and country regulatory boards. Many highly trained acupuncturists work closely with medical doctors in their local community who regularly find the combination of treatments is very effective and beneficial for the patient.
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.
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.
…About your response to care: If you have any problems, concerns, questions, or emergencies, please call me. If you reach my voice mail, please leave a message. I check my messages regularly and will respond to your call promptly. We are here to serve you and give you the very best of care.