Acupuncture is a medical therapy developed over 2000 years ago in Asia. Acupuncture stimulates specific points beneath the skin by the insertion of acupuncture needles. This process restores the balance of the body's energy, also known as "Qi"(pronounced chi). Acupuncture, Herbal Medicine, Tai Chi, Qi Gong and Moxibustion are some of the essential elements of Traditional Chinese Medicine.
Is it safe?
Acupuncture therapy has been used for thousands of years in China. Acupuncture is the treatment of choice for one-fourth of the world's population! The needles are FDA approved, individually packaged, pre-sterilized and disposed after a single use.
What conditions can acupuncture treat?
Many conditions may be treated. Diabetes, general pain relief and control for arthritis, cervical spondylopathy, knee pain, hand and foot pain, sciatica, shoulder pain, tennis elbow, lower back and neck pain, tendonitis and other conditions such as circulatory problems with high or low blood pressure, cold hands and feet. Some nervous system imbalances can also be treated such as anxiety, nervousness, sleeplessness, depression, asthma, allergies, sinus problems, digestive disorders like Crohn's Disease, irritable bowel syndrome, ulcerative colitis, diarrhea, and constipation. Other common ailments treated include headaches, migraines, treatments to help stop smoking and many more conditions.
How does acupuncture work?
In traditional Chinese Medicine, there exists a meridian system through the human body. In this system, invisible passageways for energy are called meridians. There are certain points on the body (more than 360) that connect with certain organs and bodily functions. Point Groups on the body that apply to a specific organ or function are found along the same meridian. In a healthy, normal functioning body, the energy in these meridians flows freely resulting in a balanced system. When the flow of energy is interrupted from causes such as stress or injury, this energy is reduced throwing your "Qi" off balance. By performing acupuncture using the points associated with the particular meridian involved, this Qi or balance is restored.
Will it conflict with my other medications?
Acupuncture will not conflict with any of your medications. Acupuncture is used to complement and supplement your physician's treatments not to replace them. You should discuss this issue with your physician and acupuncturist.