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Acupuncture

Acupuncture is an effective form of health care that has evolved into a complete and holistic medical system. Practitioners of acupuncture and Chinese medicine have used this noninvasive medical system to diagnose and help millions of people get well and stay healthy. An acupuncturist will place fine, sterile needles at specific acupoints on the body. This activates the body's Qi (pronounced "chee") and promotes natural healing by enhancing recuperative power, immunity and physical and emotional health. It can also improve overall function and well-being. It is a safe, painless and effective way to treat a wide variety of medical problems.

Yes. In some instances children actually respond more quickly than adults. If your child has an aversion to needles, your acupuncturist may massage the acupuncture points. This called acupressure or tui na.

The frequency and number of acupuncture treatments needed vary from person to person and depend on various factors such as your constitution, the severity and duration of the problem, and the quality and quantity of your Qi. Some people may feel immediate relief after one session, while others may require several sessions to see significant improvement. Chronic conditions usually take longer to resolve than acute ones. Your acupuncturist will assess your condition and provide a personalized treatment plan that may include weekly or biweekly sessions initially, followed by less frequent sessions as your symptoms improve. The goal is to achieve long-term relief and prevent the return of symptoms.

Insurance coverage varies from state to state. Contact your insurance provider to learn what kind of care is covered. Here are a few questions to ask: • Will my plan cover acupuncture? • How many visits per calendar year? • Do I need a referral? • Do I have a co-pay? • Do I have a deductible? If yes, has it been met?

Many things influence the quality, quantity and balance of Qi. Physical and emotional trauma, stress, lack of exercise, overexertion, seasonal changes, diet, accidents or excessive activity can lead to a blockage or imbalance of Qi. Normally, when this imbalance occurs, the body naturally bounces back, returning to a balanced state of health and well-being. When the disruption to Qi is prolonged or is excessive, or if the body is in a weakened state, then illness, pain or disease can set in.

Cupping is a therapy designed to stimulate the flow of blood and Qi within the superficial muscle layers. It is used for many ailments including sore muscles, tension, neck pain and the common cold. In this therapy, your acupuncturist will place small glass or plastic "cups" over specific areas on your body. A vacuum is created under the cup using heat or suction. They may be moved over an affected area or left in place. You may leave the office looking as though a large octopus gave you a big hug. There is no need for alarm. The slight redness will quickly dissipate. Tui Na translates as "push grasp". It is a massage technique that moves Qi in various parts of the body. It is used to relieve muscle pain, tension and inflammation and to heal injuries. Gua Sha is another technique used to release muscle tension, tightness and constriction. A specialized tool is used to gently scrape or rub the skin over a problem area. Gua Sha feels a bit like deep massage. This too may leave some slight redness that will quickly dissipate. Moxibustion is a treatment that uses an herb called mugwort. It may be burned on the handle of the needle, above the skin, on salt or on a slice of ginger. This is used to "warm" acupuncture points or areas in order to quicken the healing process.

Acupuncture is extremely safe. It is an all-natural, drug-free therapy, yielding no negative side effects, just feelings of relaxation and well-being. There is little danger of infection from acupuncture needles because they are sterile, used once and then discarded.

Today, acupuncturists undertake three to four years of extensive and comprehensive graduate training at nationally certified schools. All acupuncturists must pass a national exam and meet strict guidelines to practice in every state.