What is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is the insertion of fine needles into the body at specific points known to be effective in the treatment of specific health problems. These points have been mapped by the Chinese over a period of two thousand years.
How does Acupuncture work?
Modern Western medicine cannot explain how acupuncture works. Traditional acupuncture is based on ancient Chinese theories of the flow of Qi (Energy) through distinct meridians or pathways that cover the body somewhat like the nerves and blood vessels do. According to ancient theory, acupuncture allows Qi to flow to areas where it is empty and away from areas where it is full. In this way, acupuncture regulates and restores the harmonious energetic balance of the body. In Chinese there is a saying, "There is no disease if there is free flow, if there is disease, there is no free flow." The same saying applies to pain.
Is Acupuncture safe?
Of course. This office only uses sterilized, individually packaged, disposable needles. This eliminates the possibility of transmitting a communicable disease by a contaminated needle.
Should I use Acupuncture?
Yes. Acupuncture can be used to treat a variety of problems. It is useful in both a preventative role as health maintenance, pain management, and for debilitating chronic diseases. The World Health Organization additionally names the following as appropriate for acupuncture: Ear, Nose, and Throat Disorders; Respiratory Disorders; Gastrointestinal Disorders; Eye Disorders; Nervous and Muscular Disorders.
Acupuncture has been used in China for centuries to treat many other problems, such as knee pain, sprains, and strains, and most gynecological complaints.
What to Expect
On your first treatment there will be paperwork (as usual), then a short period to become familiar with your health complaint. You would lie down on a treatment table and the practitioner would insert needles just beneath the surface of the skin. The practitioner leaves the room and allows you to relax to quiet music for about 20 to 30 minutes. A buzzer is available by request for you to call the practitioner. After the time has elapsed the needles will be removed and you are given advice on rescheduling and sent on your way to be happy and healthy. Some clients will feel the health benefits immediately while others may require up to 8 treatments to see any benefit.
Allergy and Sensitivity Alert!!!
Alcohol: In some of the herbal blends alcohol is used to enhance absorption. If you have an aversion to alcohol please let this office know before treatment. Additionally 70% isopropyl alcohol is uses as a sanitizer.
Smoke: This facility will use a therapy known as moxibustion on occasion. This involves applying burning herbs over the acupuncture points or needles. Smoke is generated and although few people have sensitivity to this type of smoke some people with smoke sensitivities have had a reaction.
Latex: This facility does not use latex gloves and they are not kept on the premises.
Animal Products: Some "herbal" products used in Chinese Medicine are not herbs at all; they are actually animal products or byproducts. They are such an integral part of Chinese medicine that we learn them and refer to them as herbs. If you would prefer not to be exposed to animal products or byproducts please let this office know before treatment.