Traditional East Asian Medicine

Acupuncture, a branch of Traditional East Asian Medicine (TEAM), is generally held to have originated in China over 3,000 years ago.  Presently used as a primary health care system throughout the world, this holistic medicine offers methods in balancing and building the body's life force or energy known as "Qi." 

Acupuncturists recognize particular pathways called "meridians" through which this energy circulates. 

Dis-ease is the result of an imbalance or blockage in the body's natural energy flow. Such imbalance manifests in physical, emotional, and psychosomatic stress-related disorders. 

Very thin, sterile, stainless steel needles are inserted into specific points along meridians in order to disperse blockage and mobilize the body's natural immune response. Needling is one of a number of energy- balancing techniques. Also included in traditional therapies are dietary counseling, various asian massage techniques, herbal remedies, and moxibustion (a technique of stimulating acupuncture points with heat).

How can acupuncture be used in preventative care?
Traditional Chinese Medicine recognizes, that many times aches, pains, and other discomforts are only symptoms of a deeper, underlying health problem. Therefore, a comprehensive diagnosis is compiled which takes into account the individual's body, mind and spirit rather than simply categorizing them into a one-sided symptom picture. The basis of acupuncture is to build the body's own immune system so that disease will not develop. Prevention is the best medicine.

What can acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine treat? 
The World Health Organization lists acupuncture as being an effective treatment for the following and more:  Adverse reactions to chemotherapy and radiation, allergies, arthritis, asthma, Bell’s palsy, depression and anxiety, digestive disorders such as diarrhea, constipation, bloating or nausea, headache or dizziness, hypertension, menstrual issues, morning sickness, neuralgia and numbness, pain in muscles and joints, pain from surgery, trauma, sports, or overuse, insomnia, TMJ, preventative care and many other issues.

What can I expect during my treatment?
Your practitioner will carefully evaluate your personal condition by asking questions about past and present medical history, wrist pulse evaluation, observing the tongue, and palpating various areas of the body for tenderness. After arriving at a specific diagnostic conclusion, one or more of the following techniques will be incorporated:

• Needles: Thin, sterile, stainless steel needles are placed in specific acupuncture points. The needles are at least five times thinner than typical hypodermic needles and insertion is usually painless. You may feel a dull ache or tingling sensation when the needle is stimulated known as Da Qi. Acupuncture is generally a very relaxing experience.
• Moxibustion: Moxa is a Chinese herb (Mugwort) which is rolled into sticks or cones and used therapeutically to warm points.  This aromatic herb creates a pleasant sensation and helps to regulate Qi.
• Herbs: Chinese herbology is an intrinsic aspect of the medicine.  Herbs may be prescribed to reduce acute conditions or as a dietary supplement which will build and strengthen the body.

What is expected of me during and after treatment?
This time has been set aside solely for you. Relax and allow the healing process to occur. Feel free to ask questions or voice any concerns which arise during the treatment. Trust that all information is confidential. The treatment does not end when the needles are removed. Acupuncture has initiated a change within the body, and now it is your right and responsibility to insure that these positive patterns are fostered. If possible, take some time to relax directly after your treatment. Most importantly, take an active part in your health care. Your practitioner will be happy to discuss diet and lifestyle changes which will best benefit your specific condition.

How many treatments are needed?
The number of treatments needed to manage or alleviate a disorder varies depending on the type of issue and the individual.  Often, acute disorders can be treated successfully within a course of ten treatments.  Chronic problems that have taken years to develop may not improve as quickly.  Change over time will reflect the gradual restoration of the body’s strength and vitality.  We do refer to other health care providers when it is in the best interest of the patient.