Acupuncture
What is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is based on the ancient Chinese philosophy that underlying our physical tissues is a network of energy called Qi (pronounced Chi).
The Qi flows through distinct meridians or pathways that cover the entire body like an intricate river system. There are major currents that branch off into smaller streams and even smaller creeks, forming a complete network or energy matrix which underlies and feeds every system, organ and tissue in the body.
A skilled acupuncturist knows how to manipulate and regulate the flow of Qi using ultra-fine pins. When the Qi is balanced, there is health. When the flow of Qi is disrupted (for example through injury), it results in discomfort or disease.
Will Acupuncture Hurt?
Acupuncture should not be painful. Different sensations can be felt along the meridians, or even at distant locations on the body that are being effected by a pin. Common sensations felt during acupuncture are tingling, heaviness, warmth or a slight electrical zing. Every person is unique.
Far from being painful, most patients leave their acupuncture treatment having experienced a deep level of relaxation similar to what one experiences during meditation.
Acupuncture naturally puts you into a ‘twilight’ state, which is the
optimal state for allowing the body to heal.
Some patients fall asleep while their pins are in.
What can I expect?
Health History
Every detail is diagnostically important. A true master of Chinese Medicine will feel your pulse, listen to your voice and look at your tongue.
Tongue
Why? Because your tongue shows all the systems and organs in your body and reveals how your body is functioning.
Pulse
Chinese medicine has 28 different pulse qualities, all with diagnostic significance.
Treatment
Next you will receive a full acupuncture treatment, which may include moxibustion, cupping, gua sha pins, herbs and advice on lifestyle and nutrition.
How Many Treatments Will I Need?
Every person is unique and responds to acupuncture and Chinese Medicine in their own individual way. The general rule is the longer you have had the problem, the longer it takes to mend.
Sometimes acute conditions can be resolved in a single treatment, but a series of 5 to 15 treatments may be required for chronic conditions.
In cases having to do with serious degenerative conditions, we work to relieve pain and restore balance. Ongoing follow-up treatments are advised and will be determined on a case-by-case basis.
Your practitioner will discuss a detailed treatment plan with you.
What can Acupuncture treat?
Acupuncture is an effective remedy for a large number of conditions and is recognized by the World Health Organization.
Acupuncture can treat all systems of the body, including musculoskeletal, neurological, emotional, hormonal, immune, digestive, circulatory, respiratory and urinary.
Following are a few treatable conditions:
Musculoskeletal
All pain: back pain, neck pain, headaches, migraines, soreness, aching, as well as symptoms like tingling and numbness.
Neurological
Neuralgia, post-operative pain, stroke recovery, nerve pain or sharp and stabbing pain.
Emotional
Anxiety, panic attacks, stress, depression, PTSD, anger and other emotions such as grief and sadness.
Hormonal
Menopausal symptoms, hot flashes, PMS, emotional imbalances and pain due to menstruation.
Digestive
Constipation, diarrhea, bloating, acid reflux, indigestion, abdominal pain, nausea or vomiting.
Immune
Allergies, frequent illness or recovery from major illness.
Respiratory
Cough, asthma, COPD, sinusitis, bronchitis.
