What is acupuncture?
Acupuncture is an effective form of medical treatment that has evolved into a complete holistic health care system. Practitioners of acupuncture and Chinese medicine have used this noninvasive treatment method to help millions of people become well and stay well. Acupuncture promotes natural healing. It can enhance recuperative power and immunity, support physical and emotional health, and improve overall function and well-being. It is a safe, painless and effective way to treat a wide variety of medical problems.
How does acupuncture work?
Modern western medicine cannot explain how acupuncture works. Traditional Acupuncture is based on ancient Chinese theories of the flow of QI (energy) and Xue (blood) through distinct meridians or pathways that cover the body somewhat like the nerves and blood vessels do. According to ancient theory, acupuncture allows QI to flow areas where it is excess. In this way, acupuncture regulates and restores the harmonious energetic balance of the body. In Chinese there is a saying: “There is no pain if there is free flow; if there is pain, there is no free flow.
Does it hurt?
If your practitioner obtained the correct stimulus, the patient should feel some cramping, heaviness, distention, tingling, or electric sensation traveling up and down the affected meridian, or energy pathway. In Chinese acupuncture is bu tong, painless. Some western cultures may categorize these sensations as types of pain. In any case if you experience any discomfort, it is usually mild.
How many treatments will I need?
That depends upon the duration, severity, and nature of your complaint. You may need only a single treatment for an acute condition. A series of twelve to fifteen treatment may resolve many chronic problems. Some degenerative conditions may require many treatments over time.
What should I know about the proposed treatments?
Your practitioner will explain the nature of your problem and what treatment he or she is recommending. Your practitioner will tell you what benefits there are to the proposed treatment, what other treatment options are available to you through this practitioner or by referral to another practitioner or physician. If you agree to go ahead with the treatments, your practitioner will tell you what progress to expect, what to do if you don’t experience that progress and what to do if you feel worse.
Is there anything I need to do before receiving an acupuncture treatment?
Yes, the following suggestions will help you get the maximum benefits from your treatment.