What is Acupuncture?
While acupuncture is an ancient form of medicine that originated in China more than 4,000 years ago, you may be surprised to learn that today’s US Army trains medics in the use of acupuncture for pain relief to use in battle or major disasters. This is done by 40 Department of Defense doctors who are licensed acupuncturists and who provide training for hundreds of army medical specialists.
In our everyday lives, acupuncture works to correct the underlying imbalances that keep us from feeling our best and focuses on enhancing our strengths to promote natural healing and improve functioning. We have our own expressions that mean the same thing as “imbalance.” How often have we heard someone complain of feeling “out of kilter” or “slightly off the mark?” The first signs of energy imbalance are often little emotional and/or physical discomforts -- like feeling fatigued, bad moods, change in appetite and/or bowel movements, and change in sleep patterns. Whether you have a major health problem, a recurring physical annoyance, or are in general good health and are interested in maintaining a high level of wellness and balance, when better balance is achieved, symptoms often diminish or disappear.
Acupuncture works in about 80% of the patients who try it. It respects your unique sensitivities and resources for coping with stresses and imbalances, and it can help restore optimal balance and promote a sense of peak well being.
How is acupuncture done?
In its simplest form, acupuncture is done by inserting small needles at precise acupuncture points around the body. Special heat or electrical stimulation may be applied when needed.
What problems can be treated by acupuncture?
Musculoskeletal disorders such as back pain, neck pain, knee pain, strains, sprains, sciatica, bursitis, tendonitis, arthritis and fibromyalgia.
Pain management associated with musculoskeletal and neurological conditions such as headache, migraine, trigeminal neuralgia, Bell's palsy and toothache.
Gastrointestinal disorders relating to digestive tract problems such as hiccups, inflammation of the stomach or colon, chronic duodenal ulcers, constipation and diarrhea, GERD (heartburn), hemorrhoids and indigestion.
Ear, nose and throat disorders such as hay fever, sinusitis, tinnitus, vertigo, allergic rhinitis and pharyngitis.
Gynecological complaints such as irregular menses, PMS, menstrual cramps, impotence, infertility, incontinence and menopause symptoms.
Problems related to tension, stress and emotional conditions, anxiety, depression and smoking cessation.
Dermatological conditions such as eczema, atopic dermatitis, acne, psoriasis, surgical scar healing, and herpes zoster.
Respiratory disorders such as uncomplicated bronchial asthma in children and adults.
Obstetrical and lactation-associated problems such as morning sickness, back pain, inadequate milk production and mastitis.
Pediatric conditions such as infant colic, poor weight gain and bedwetting.
How would I feel during and after an acupuncture treatment?
Most people receiving acupuncture treatments describe the experience as feeling a deep relaxation or even a mild and brief disorientation immediately following treatment. They report feeling enhanced well being; tend to have more vitality and work more efficiently and effectively; have better and more restful sleep; and get along better with others. Sometimes the original symptoms worsen for a few days before feeling much better while your body is learning to let go of the familiar pattern of compensation.
How many treatments will I need?
The number of treatments needed differs from person to person depending upon the duration, severity and nature of the problem. Initial visit is 60 to 75 minutes and a return visit takes about 45 to 60 minutes.
Scared of needles?
People experience acupuncture differently. Most people find the treatment relaxing and enjoyable. The disposable sterile needles are very fine and flexible, about the width of a human hair. The number of acupuncture points used depends on one’s specific patterns at the time of that visit. Some patients experience minimal pain described as slight cramping, heaviness, distention, tingling or electric sensation at the site of the needle insertion or traveling up or down the spine. Feeling pain often indicates blockage of energy.
Should I prepare myself in any way before receiving acupuncture treatment?
YES. The following suggested guidelines will help to enhance the value of your treatment:
Maintain good personal hygiene to reduce the possibility of bacterial infection.
Do not eat an unusually large meal immediately before or after your treatment.
Do not wear any type of jewelry.
Do not exercise strenuously, engage in sexual activity, or consume alcoholic beverages within 3 hours before or after treatment.
Wear loose clothing, women should not wear one-piece dresses.
Plan your activities so that after the treatments you can get some rest, make arrangements accordingly (i.e. work or school).
Continue taking prescription medications as prescribed by your doctor.
Keep good mental or written notes of your reaction to treatments, so your doctor can follow up properly.
Contraindications for acupuncture: Allergy to metal or active bleeding/clotting disorder