The World Health Organization
and the National Institutes for Health
have stated that Acupuncture is suitable in treating
a variety conditions.
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What is Acupuncture and how does it work?
Acupuncture is a method of encouraging the body to promote and maintain natural
healing. This is done by the application of fine, sterilized-disposable needles, at specific acupoints at the surface
of the skin along the meridians. Appropriate stimulation to the points encourages the proper flow of Qi. The proper flow
of Qi promotes health, increases energy and enhances vitality. There is a Chinese saying, "When there is
pain there is no free flow of Qi ; therefore, if there is free flow, there is no pain." There is no side effects to acupuncture,
and it produces no secondry conditions or doctor-caused disease. Which makes it complimentary
to use along side with other medical modalities.
What conditions can be treated by Acupuncture?
At this time in the U.S, the most common conditions treated with Acupuncture tend to be pain
related. However, acupuncture is part of a complete medical system that addresses a wide variety of complaints. It is an excellent,
effective choice at the early stage of any dis-ease, or for that which western medicine does not yet understand or for which
it has no treatment for.
Does it hurt and is it safe?
In Chinese, acupuncture is said to be "bu tong", or painless.
Very fine and flexible needles are used. These needles are nothing like the hypodermic needle
used that people are usually familiar with. The patient may feel a mild reaction upon insertion of the needle, experience
tingling or warmth around the site, a traveling sensation along the meridian's pathway, or at times a heaviness,
or mild cramp. This can depend on your sensitivity, the intent of the acupuncturist' treatment, or the style of acupuncture
that they use. Many feel a deep sense of peace and well being after receiving a treatment.
Throughout the United States, sterile-disposable packaged, needles
are used. Acupuncture physicians are trained, and adhere to universal precautions for the safety of their patients
and themselves.
How long does a treatment take?
The initial visit takes up to 1 hour. This time is spent discussing and assessing
the condition, along with receiving your initial treatment. Subsequent treatments take as little as 30 minutes.
How many treatments will I need?
It depends on the nature of your
complaint, the duration of it, and the severity. For acute conditions only a single treatmeini nt may be needed. Initially
in most cases we begin with 1- 2 treatments per week for the first 1- 3 weeks so that we can provide a good foundation and
achieve momentum. On average a short series of 6-10 treatments will improve or resolve most chronic conditions.
Degenerative conditions require many treatments over a longer period of time. After your initial visit
you may choose to begin with the Healthy Start Package. In addition,
it is recommended that persons receive "seasonal treatments" four times per year for preventative care.
As mentioned, Oriental medicine is a
complete medical system. It attempts to treat a full range of diseases and complaints. To
be assessed and to discuss all the options available, a person really needs to visit a licensed acupuncture physician.
One who has specifically completed a formal program, demonstrating proficiency in the "field of Oriental medicine". You
may check credentials by contacting your State licensing board, or the NCCAOM for National Certification.
Yours in health,
Christine Ellis
To schedule an office visit --
I can be reached by calling 352. 376-0309
