Acupuncture
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has been practiced for over 2,500 years. TCM includes a range of practices including acupuncture, herbology, tui na, qi gong, and dietary therapy. Acupuncture is the insertion of fine, sterile, disposable needles on various points of the body for therapeutic purposes. Acupuncture focuses on the root of illness, not just symptoms. Through specific diagnostic methods, such as Pulse Palpation and Tongue Diagnosis, TCM is able to determine the underlying cause of all illness.
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Vital energy (referred to as Qi) and blood circulate throughout the body in a system of meridians. These meridians, or channels, connect the internal organ systems to outer tissues. When there is an obstruction in these channels, pain or disease is present. By stimulating certain acupuncture points on the body, the flow of qi and blood can be regulated thus treating pain and disease.
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What is a typical treatment?
The initial visit is approximately 1.5 hours consisting of a thorough medical intake, pulse and tongue diagnosis, palpation of acupuncture points, and insertion of acupuncture needles. Other modalities might be included if applicable, such as, cupping, moxibustion, electrical stimulation, gua sha, aromatherapy, or tui na. Follow up treatments range from 45 minutes to 1 hour.
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Does it hurt?
Not surprisingly, this is a frequently asked question. We use high quality needles along with gentle techniques to minimize discomfort. The sensation from the needles can vary from person to person. Most people feel a sensation of tingling, warmth, heaviness, movement, or even deep relaxation. All of these sensations are normal and expected.
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What does acupuncture treat?
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), acupuncture has been proven to effectively treat over 40 conditions. However, acupuncture is not limited to this list. Please ask for more information if you seek care for a condition not listed. For a complete listing, please visit the WHO website.
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Musculoskeletal: Low back pain, arthritis, knee pain, sciatica, muscle weakness
Emotional: anxiety, depression, stress, insomnia
Gynecological: regulate menses, hot flashes, PMS, fertility
Reproductive: infertility, impotence
Neurological: headaches, migraines, bells pals, post-operative pain, neuralgia
Respiratory: allergies, asthma, cough, common cold, flu, sinusitis
Gastrointestinal: abdominal pain, nausea, diarrhea, constipation, IBS, acid reflux
Other: addictions, fatigue, skin conditions
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