Q: How does acupuncture work?
Acupuncture is a modality in one of the oldest forms of medicine, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). It is a natural, safe form of medicine that has little to no side effect. It can also be safely combined with many other forms of treatment. Hair-thin needles are inserted in points along the meridian channels to promote smooth flow of Qi (pronounced "chi"), which in most cases are translated into English as "vital energy".
Acupuncture works in a series of treatments, tapping into the body's primary healing mechanism and promoting homeostasis. Any imbalance in our body's systems can lead to a myriad of symptoms, ranging from physical pain to psychological issues like depression or anxiety. Many Western studies have demonstrated that acupuncture can trigger various physiological responses. Some examples include stimulating the immune system, regulating blood sugar levels, affecting digestion through regulation of peristaltic movements, and regulating pain receptors and serotonin secretion.
Acupuncture works in a series of treatments, tapping into the body's primary healing mechanism and promoting homeostasis. Any imbalance in our body's systems can lead to a myriad of symptoms, ranging from physical pain to psychological issues like depression or anxiety. Many Western studies have demonstrated that acupuncture can trigger various physiological responses. Some examples include stimulating the immune system, regulating blood sugar levels, affecting digestion through regulation of peristaltic movements, and regulating pain receptors and serotonin secretion.
Q: What does acupuncture treat?
Probably most known for its pain management effects, acupuncture has a proven track record dealing with a wide range of clinical issues. Because TCM is a comprehensive approach to treat the entire body, it can diagnose and treat an incredibly wide range of conditions, promoting true healing. TCM diagnoses the body in a way that is completely different from conventional Western medicine. While it cannot guarantee a cure, both the World Health Organization (WHO) and National Institute of Health (NIH) have compiled a list of conditions successfully treated with acupuncture. Some key conditions are:
|
|
If your condition is not mentioned above, or if you have any questions, don't hesitate to contact us.
Q: How does it feel?
Acupuncture needles are thin, solid, and sterilized disposable needles for single-use. Many people don't feel anything when they are being inserted, while others may feel a slight pinch, possibly followed by sensations of tingling, pulsating, or heaviness. These are all normal sensations referred to as "Qi sensations". Often, people feel deep relaxation during treatments. (Some even take a little nap!) Many remain relaxed for hours or even days after the treatment. Others will feel energized as a result. On rare occasions, people feel worse after treatment. This can happen when the energy blockages and sensations that were dulled by chronic illness is released, and patients experience past symptoms or heightened sensitivity as the body's condition reverse course. This will subside and they will begin to feel better with continued treatment.
Q: How many treatments do I need?
This will depend on the duration and severity of the condition being treated as well as the medical history and overall health of the individual. On average, those with acute conditions are advised to receive 4-5 weekly treatments, while those with more chronic conditions may need 9-10 weekly treatments. Acupuncture has a cumulative effect, where each treatment builds on the previous treatment. So it is difficult to say exactly how many treatments will be needed.
Once the condition is resolved, some terminate treatment entirely, while others may want to continue with monthly "tune-up" treatments.
For some, effect is immediate. But for others, it may take a combination of acupuncture and herbal treatments along with dietary or behavioral changes being actively followed by the patient. In these cases, it would likely take a few months of treatment.
Once the condition is resolved, some terminate treatment entirely, while others may want to continue with monthly "tune-up" treatments.
For some, effect is immediate. But for others, it may take a combination of acupuncture and herbal treatments along with dietary or behavioral changes being actively followed by the patient. In these cases, it would likely take a few months of treatment.
Q: What do I need to know for my first treatment?
Please fill out the New Patient Forms (pdf) before the initial visit. Alternatively, you can come 15-20 minutes early for your treatment and fill it out at the office.
Wear loose comfortable clothing to allow access to arms and legs, possibly abdomen or back. Remember to eat something 1-2 hours before treatment, even if it is a light snack.
Allow 90 minutes for your first visit. The first part will consist of 30-60 minutes of consultation, where we will discuss your primary concern, your medical history, take your pulse and observe your tongue, and figure out your TCM diagnosis. 20-30 minutes will be devoted to treatment.
Follow up visits lasts roughly an hour and includes follow up consultation and treatment aspects.
Wear loose comfortable clothing to allow access to arms and legs, possibly abdomen or back. Remember to eat something 1-2 hours before treatment, even if it is a light snack.
Allow 90 minutes for your first visit. The first part will consist of 30-60 minutes of consultation, where we will discuss your primary concern, your medical history, take your pulse and observe your tongue, and figure out your TCM diagnosis. 20-30 minutes will be devoted to treatment.
Follow up visits lasts roughly an hour and includes follow up consultation and treatment aspects.