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Acupuncture is a branch of Chinese Medicine which involves stimulating certain acupoints with thin, hair-like filiform needles along energy channels in the human body. These energy channels are also called meridians and act as conduits in which vital energy or “qi” flows through the body. According to ancient Chinese Medicine theory these meridians must be balanced, open, and contain the appropriate amount of energy in order for proper circulation and good health. When these energy channels become blocked, one may experience pain, discomfort, or ill health. This blockage can be caused by many things, including disease, pathogens, trauma/injuries, medication (side effects), as well as lifestyle factors such as overwork, poor diet, emotions, lack of rest, and stress. The aim of Acupuncture is to remove any energy blockages in this highly complex “energy highway” and allow the body to recalibrate itself to its natural state of health.
Frequently Asked Questions about Acupuncture:
• What conditions are treatable by Acupuncture?
Acupuncture can treat and alleviate hundreds of symptoms with positive results. These include but are not limited to:
Addictions, Allergies, Ankle Sprain, Anxiety, Arm and Shoulder Pain, Arthritis, Attention Deficit Disorder, Back Pain/Backache/Low Back Pain, Bed Wetting, Blood Pressure (High or Low), Bronchial Conditions, Bursitis, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, Circulatory Problems, Colds, Colitis, Constipation, Cough, Depression, Detox for Chemical Dependency, Diarrhea, Diverticulitis, Dizziness, Emphysema, Fatigue, Fibromyalgia, Flu, Gas, Gynecological, Dysfunctions, Headache, Heart Problems, Hemorrhoids, Hiccoughs, Hip Pain, Indigestion, Infertility, Insomnia, Joint Pain, Kidney Problems, Knee Pain, Leg Pain/Cramps/Restless Leg Syndrome, Neuralgia, Pain, Pre-Menstrual Syndrome, Sciatica, Shoulder Pain, Sinus Congestion, Skin Problems, Stomach Problems, Sports Injuries, Stress, Ulcers, Urinary Problems, Weight Gain and more.
• Do the needles hurt? Will Acupuncture be painful?
Acupuncture needles are very thin, often no bigger in diameter than a human hair. These fine, flexible needles if inserted by a skilled practitioner should produce little or no sensation. There is often a slight tingling or perhaps warm sensation that the patient may experience when the needle makes contact with qi. This is normal and should be expected.
• What can I expect from my first Acupuncture treatment?
You will be asked several questions about your health, medical history, emotions, lifestyle and diet. A physical diagnosis will be conducted including an examination of your tongue and the taking of your pulse. This is a fundamental aspect of Oriental Medical diagnosis. Additional Western exams will be conducted including heart rate, blood pressure, respiratory rate, and any other exam that may be pertinent to your health or medical history.
Your first visit is typically longer then follow-up treatments and can last as long as an hour and a half. You should wear comfortable clothes and have eaten a light meal or snack an hour or so before.
• Can Acupuncture treat pain?
More than any other condition, patients come to acupuncturists with the complaint of pain. This pain could be anywhere in the body – headache, shoulder, neck, back, arm, leg, etc. Many people who suffer from chronic pain have been taking pain medication or just grinning and bearing it for years. Most health professionals agree that pain medication does not address the root of the problem. Acupuncture can be a major relief for pain because it aims to address the underlying cause.
• Can Acupuncture help me deal with stress?
Modern day lifestyle and diet often leave many feeling stressed out, tired, and anxious. The increasing demands on our time and resources only seem to add to this. Stress is a major contributor to many illnesses and can literally make people feel sick. Too much stress can wear down the body’s natural defenses and cause an imbalance of qi circulation. Acupuncture can help restore the natural circulation and strengthen the body’s internal reserves of energy to make people more adaptable to change and stress in their environment.
• Is Acupuncture safe?
If performed by a qualified, conscientious acupuncturist it is very safe. Acupuncturists are well trained in the human anatomy and have learned how to safely insert the needles, which are sterile and for single use only.
• Are the Acupuncture needles sterile?
Yes, acupuncturists in the state of California are required by law to use needles that are sterile, non-toxic and labeled for single use.
• How long are Acupuncture treatments?
The first visit will last an hour and a half. Follow up visits are one hour.
• How often do I need Acupuncture?
Each patient is different, however the typical recommendation is two treatments a week for the first two to four weeks. Depending on the patient’s body, lifestyle, and history of disease it may take shorter or longer to notice improvements. In general, the longer one has had a condition, the more treatment will be needed to restore balance.
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