Science Behind Acupuncture

BACKGROUND OF ACUPUNCTURE:

Acupuncture is one of the oldest forms of healing, originating in East Asia nearly 5,000 years ago. It is a complete system of healing, recognizing the body, mind and spirit.

THE SCIENCE BEHIND ACUPUNCTURE:.

Acupuncture works directly with our ā€œQiā€ (energy) and the connective tissue of the body. Connective tissue is what attaches all parts of the body to one another; from muscles to organs. When we are under stress, muscles and this tissue contract; adrenaline production goes into overdrive and our autonomic nervous system becomes impaired. Acupuncture releases theses blockages through the application of fine needles.

When a specific acupuncture point is stimulated, it affects the electrical impulses of our Qi and the connective tissue and sends a direct message to our brain, nervous system, muscles and organs to relax, thus allowing blood to flow more freely.

The nervous system is thus more balanced and the body returns to homeostasis. In other words, while acupuncture is performed on the surface tissue of the body, it is actually affecting the pathways which run deep into all of its systems.

HOW DOES ACUPUNCTURE WORK? 

Traditional East Asian Medicine is based on an energetic model rather than the biochemical model of Western medicine. The ancient scholars recognized the vital energy inherent in all living things. This energy is called Qi (pronounced chee). Over thousands of years of practice, physicians have discovered a system of cyclic energy flowing in the human body along specific pathways called meridians. Each meridian is associated with a particular physiological system and internal organ. When the Qi in the pathways becomes obstructed, deficient, excessive, or imbalanced, disease occurs. The meridians communicate with the surface of the body at specific locations called acupuncture points. Needles inserted in these points influence the Qi that flows to internal organs. Acupuncture can also affect specific areas of pain associated with injury or trauma. A needle inserted near the area of overstrained muscle or tendon will increase the flow of Qi to that area, which reduces pain and accelerates the healing process. Using a system of pulse and tongue diagnosis, along with findings from other signs and symptoms, the flow of the meridian system is determined. A treatment plan is then formulated to help the body to achieve a balanced state of health. 

IS ACUPUNCTURE SAFE?

Acupuncture needles are very fine, sterile, disposable, and FDA approved. A licensed acupuncturist has had thorough training on the safe implementation of this treatment modality. 

IS ACUPUNCTURE PAINFUL? 
Acupuncture needles are very fine and flexible, about the size of a human hair. They bear no resemblance to the needles used when receiving an injection. In most cases, insertion by a skilled practitioner is performed with a minimum of discomfort. Most patients find the treatments very relaxing and many fall asleep during the treatment. Acupuncture may include a variety of non-needle techniques, such as heat treatment (called moxibustion), acupressure, and herbal applications. 
 

HOW MANY TREATMENTS WILL I NEED?
The number of treatments will depend on the nature of the complaint, its severity, and how long it has been present. Many conditions may be alleviated rapidly. Other, more chronic conditions, will be relieved only with slow, steady progress. Through East Asian Medicine, a patient will become more aware of his or her own body, thus increasing its ability to maintain well-being. Eastern and Western medicine compliment each other and can be integrated to offer optimal health care. In cases where medical circumstances can be dealt with more effectively by Western medicine, your acupuncturist will recommend that you contact a western physician.


ACUPUNCTURE CAN IMPROVE SYMPTOMS ASSOCIATED WITH:

Arthritis

Tendonitis

Traumatic Injury(Sport Related)

Chronic Pain

Pre/Post Surgical Ailments

Fibromayalgia

Depression/Anxiety

Infertility

Menstrual Disorders

Insomina

Migraines

Weight Management

Sinus Problems

Allergies

Parasthesia

BENEFITS OF MASSAGE + ACUPUNCTURE:

Increase Range of Motion

Decrease Pain

Balance + Well being

Efficient Energy Through Out the Day

Focus + Concentration

Increase Blood Circulation

Calm + Relaxed

Better Sleep

Stress-Free

FOR PRE/POST SURGERY:

Quicker Recover Period

Decrease Swelling + Pain