Acupuncture

What is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is just one of several therapies that constitute traditional Chinese medicine. The ancient view holds that the basis of good health is the harmonious balance of qi, or vital energy, in the body. According to this paradigm, energy moves through the body along 14 main pathways, called meridians, and when the flow along one or several of the meridians is obstructed, the result may be disease or injury. By stimulating key points in the body - most commonly with needles - an acupuncturist seeks to restore balance to the normal energy flow and, consequently, to relieve pain or treat disease. Acupuncturists believe that imbalances in qi are the root of disease processes and that acupuncture helps impose balance on qi via needle insertion at specific points on or near the meridians.

Where did Acupuncture originate from?

Acupuncture was first discussed in the ancient Chinese medical text "Huang Di Nei Jing" (The Yellow Emperor's Classic of Internal Medicine), originating more than 2000 years ago.

Is acupuncture safe?

If performed by a qualified, conscientious practitioner, yes. Licensed Acupuncturists know the human anatomy well, and insert needles in a safe fashion. The instruments used to penetrate the skin are either pre-sterilized and disposable after a single use, or disinfected and sterilized in an autoclave, as surgical and dental instruments are, after each use. The practitioner is well aware of the concern over infectious diseases, and takes every measure to insure cleanliness as all health care professional do. Bleeding rarely occurs, unless done so on purpose in specific situations. Even then the amount is minimal and in no way dangerous.

What does acupuncture treat?

Acupuncture treats almost any known disease or condition. Acupuncture has been around for thousands of years. Most diseases have been identified and a treatment has been devised and tested. Recently acupuncture has gained acceptance in the United States and Europe. Acupuncture is used to help quit smoking, loose weight, reduce stress anxiety and depression, treat headaches, lower blood pressure, infertility and control pain and many other conditions. Acupuncture is also used in conjunction with Western medicine to reduce side effects. Some insurance companies now cover acupuncture treatments.

Am I A Candidate For Acupuncture?

Everyone can benefit from acupuncture. Even if you feel healthy, you can still restore mental and physical balance with acupuncture treatments. This can be effective in preventing stress related diseases or conditions. Many people come for acupuncture treatment for the same reason they would get a massage; it makes them feel good. Often an acupuncture physician will diagnose a condition that the patient was not aware could be treated. A feeling of stuffiness, sluggishness or “feeling out of step” may seem like nothing worth mentioning. Conditions such as these can be successfully treated.