What is Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture?
Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is the oldest documented, continuously practiced medicine in the world. It’s written history is over 2500 years old. It draws its philosophy and treatments from the recognition of man’s relationship to nature. Just as there are complex relationships in nature, there are equally complex relationships between the different systems of the body. Chinese medicine is holistic, meaning it treats the entire human system not just a part of the system. We consider the mind, body, spirit and emotions when diagnosing and treating a person.
How Does Acupuncture Work?
Acupuncture is based upon our body’s vital energy called “Qi” (pronounced chee). Qi flows in regular patterns through the body in channels called meridians. The network of channels act like a communication system for the body. It will cause glands to secrete hormones, the brain to secrete neurochemicals, as well as directing all the organs to function. In Chinese medicine we recognize a number of different and additional functions for each of the organs. The names of meridians are the names of the organs ; Liver, Heart, Kidney etc. The meridians are like rivers flowing through the body to irrigate and nourish tissues. An obstruction in the movement of these rivers is like a dam that backs up the flow in one part of the body and restricts it in others. Needling the acupuncture points unblocks obstructions at the dams and reestablishes the regular flow through the meridians. Acupuncture treatments help the body’s internal organs to correct the imbalances in their digestion, absorption and energy production activities and in the circulation of their energy through the meridians.
The modern scientific explanation is that needling the acupuncture points stimulates the nervous system to release chemicals in the muscles, spinal cord and brain. These chemicals will either change the experience of pain, or they will trigger the release of other chemicals and hormones which influence the body’s own internal regulating system. The improved energy and biochemical balance produced by acupuncture results in stimulation of the body’s natural healing abilities and in promotion physical and emotional well being. Acupuncture is particularly useful in resolving physical problems related to tension, stress and emotional conditions.
Preventative Medicine
The Chinese have a saying ” You can cheat your body until you are 30, after 30 your body starts cheating you.” Many of us do not eat well, sleep enough or get enough fresh air and exercise. Consistent stress eventually takes a toll. Our goal in Chinese medicine is to live in harmony with the natural laws affecting us. Acupuncture and herbs help restore balance to the body and mind.
Preventative Medicine
The Chinese have a saying ” You can cheat your body until you are 30, after 30 your body starts cheating you. Many of us do not eat well, sleep enough or get enough fresh air and exercise. Consistent stress eventually takes a toll. Our goal in Chinese medicine is to live in harmony with the natural laws affecting us. Acupuncture and herbs help restore balance to the body and mind.
Why Should I Try Acupuncture?
Acupuncture can treat many conditions that are not adequately helped by conventional medicine. TCM generally will not interfere with Western medical therapy, in fact it often helps. Acupuncture is safe, effective, and is a valuable alternative to the risks of medications. Chinese medicine is particularly good at treating organ function, such as digestive problems, lung function and female menstrual and hormone disorders. It reduces inflammation and increases circulation so it will treat arthritis, trauma and sinus conditions.
Diagnosis
On your first visit acupuncturists will listen carefully to you in an extensive interview which provides vital clues to an overall pattern of health or disease. Diagnosis focuses on identifying the nature, location and degree of imbalances of energy in the body and the organ system affected. TCM diagnosis pulls together many apparently unrelated signs and symptoms to form a “pattern disharmony” that provides the acupuncturist with information that points to a root cause for a particular problem. The symptoms experienced in ill health are not seen as something we should suppress. They are signals pointing to other imbalances. Acupuncture and herbs are used to support the body’s efforts to correct those imbalances. Treatment is based not only upon the type of illness, but also on the nature of the patient. Each person has a unique constitutional make up and set of symptoms.
How Many Treatments Will I Need?
The number of treatments needed differs for each person. Since no two people have identical combinations of symptoms, history and body constitution, the number of treatments needed vary. For complex or long standing or chronic conditions one or two treatments a week for a number of months may be recommended. For acute problems, usually fewer visits are required.
Does Acupuncture Hurt?
Acupuncture needles are very thin and pliable. They are disposable, used once, and discarded. It is usually painless, however, some people do feel mild sensations such as tingling or numbness which goes away quickly. Treatments usually last 30 minutes. You will normally feel very relaxed after a treatment.
Does Insurance Cover Treatment?
Some policies cover acupuncture. I am a preferred provider for Anthem Blue Cross. If you have insurance benefits through another insurance company, I will provide you with a superbill that will allow you to get reimbursed by your insurance carrier.