Acupuncture

Acupuncture is part of a health care system that is referred to as “Traditional Chinese Medicine,” or TCM. Of the various treatment approaches in TCM (e.g., herbal medicine, tui na and Chinese nutrition), acupuncture is arguably the best known in this country. Regardless of the particular method, the underlying concept is the same; by manipulating the flow of Qi (the term given to the energy that makes up all matter), health can be restored.

An acupuncture treatment starts off with a diagnostic interview by a practitioner of Chinese Medicine to discuss the patient’s primary complaints, medical history and general health concerns. The practitioner will take the patient’s pulse at several points and look at the shape, color and coating of their tongue. Other physical characteristics (skin tone, posture and texture of face to name a few) may also be taken into consideration when making a diagnosis. The practitioner will discern what the patient’s patterns are and based on them, determine how best to balance their energy and restore optimal health.

Once the diagnosis is made, the patient will lie on the table and the actual treatment will begin with the practitioner inserting the needles into several of the points that pertain to the patient’s condition. The needles used for acupuncture are sterilized, small and hair thin. They are solid needles with a smooth and rounded end which will not cut the skin but will push the tissue aside. There is generally no pain associated with acupuncture other than a pinprick feeling on insertion. Some patients may experience a feeling of tingling, warmth, itching, or a slight electrical sensation. Most patients will become so calm and relaxed during treatment that they take a nap. The needles are left in for about 15-30 minutes but the total treatment can take up to an hour.

Please be sure to eat prior to your first treatment– a light meal is best. Special clothing is not neccessary but you may prefer to wear something that is loose and comfortable. Avoid heavy exertion immediately before and after treatment. First time visits also include a 15 minute diagnostic meeting. Please arrive 15 minutes prior to your scheduled time. Please provide 24hr notice in the event of a cancellation.

At a basic level Qi can be broken down in two very broad categories of yin and yang, a pair of mutually dependent opposites. When energy is balanced and Qi is flowing properly within the body, there is a state of overall good health. However, when it is unbalanced, health problems will manifest. With acupuncture the points for needle insertion can be viewed as “switches” that are activated to balance a person.