What is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is a traditional medical system based on a holistic approach that originated in China over 2,500 years ago. As part of traditional Chinese medicine, acupuncture is a safe, effective, and non-invasive form of therapy that is used to address many different types of ailments and conditions. It aims to restore and maintain health by correcting imbalances in the flow of the body's energy, known as Qi in Chinese medicine. This is achieved through the insertion and stimulation of very fine sterilized and disposable needles at specific points located on the body. Acupuncture is recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the National Institute of Health (NIH) as an effective form of therapy in the treatments of many different conditions. Some of the conditions addressed by acupuncture include, but is not limited to:
• Abdominal pain, distention, and bloating • Addictions • Anxiety • Arthritis • Asthma • Carpal tunnel syndrome • Chronic and Acute Pain • Chronic Fatigue • Common Cold • Constipation • Dental Pain •Dermatological Conditions • Depression • Diarrhea • Digestive Problems • Dizziness • Dysentery • Emotional problems • Eye conditions • Facial Rejuvenation • Fatigue • Fibromyalgia • Headache • Hiccups • Urinary Incontinence • Indigestion • Infertility • Insomnia • Irritable Bowel Syndrome • Back Pain • Menopause • Menstrual Irregularities • Migraines • Nausea • PMS •Rhinitis • Sciatica • Sinusitis • Smoking Cessation • Stress • Urinary Tract Infections • Weight Loss • Vomiting
Safety of Acupuncture:
Acupuncture is a method that has been shown to be very safe and effective (MacPhearson, 2001). It is very safe when done by a Licensed Acupuncturist. We use only solid, fine, single use, disposable needles. Acupuncture has a very low risk of side effects.
According to the National Institute of Health (1997), one of the advantages of using acupuncture is that its risk for adverse effects is significantly lower than that of many pharmaceutical drugs used today. According to the York acupuncture safety study of 34,000 acupuncture treatments performed by 574 acupuncturists, there were no serious side effects that required hospitalization or that caused death, or disability. Out of the 34,000 treatments the more common side effects were mild bruising, slight pain, or slight bleeding. The study was therefore able to conclude that acupuncture is a safe method of treatment (MacPhearson, 2001). Other related studies and surveys have reported similar findings. In addition, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved acupuncture needles for use by licensed practitioners in 1996. The needles are now regulated as other surgical and medical devices are (NIH, 1998).
What to expect during the treatment?
Every treatment plan is unique to each individual patient. During the initial exam a full health history is taken. Information regarding one's health conditions, lifestyle, diet, emotional health and behavior is taken into account. In addition, tongues and pulses are examined according to the fundamentals of Chinese medicine. After the interview, the acupuncture treatment is given. Once the needles are in, the patient will rest 20-30 minutes, and may even fall asleep. During the treatment one may feel a vague numbness, pressure, or tingling, or a dull ache. This is generally referred to as a qi sensation. It is a normal and good reaction, and is to be expected. After the treatment, the patient may feel relaxed or energized. In general, people feel that acupuncture is a relaxing experience, even those who initially show hesitation about needles. Since each person is unique, results will vary according to one's physical condition, lifestyle, and motivation. Most people see noticeable and positive changes within 6 to 8 treatments, however, results can be seen even after your first treatment.
How long are the treatments?
Initial visits may last up to an hour and a half. This ensures a thorough intake, health history, and diagnosis. Subsequent visits generally last from 40-60 minutes.
How many treatments will I need?
The number of treatments required varies from individual to individual. It depends on the duration, severity, and nature of the condition, as well as the individual’s response to treatment. At times 2-3 treatments is all that is needed for an acute condition, while more chronic conditions may require a series of about 8-12 treatments depending on your particular needs. These treatments are given in close succession to maintain their effectiveness. Depending on the condition, the treatment course may advance to continued sessions several times throughout the year.
*Acupuncture can be a valuable method of therapy for many health conditions, including when used in conjunction with conventional medicine. Your primary physician may recommend it alone or along with conventional medical treatment for many conditions. Always inform your doctor if you are using an alternative therapy or if you are thinking about combining it with your conventional medical treatment.