05/06/2015
Acupuncture FAQ
The following are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine:
Q: WHAT IS ACUPUNCTURE?
A: Acupuncture is the practice of inserting ultra fine needles into specific points of energy that are located along 14 Meridians or Channels that cover the entire body. There are 365 classical Acupuncture points associated with the 14 Meridians. These points and meridians, mapped out millennia ago and confirmed by consistent practice have shown that skillful insertion and manipulation of specific points will produce predictable results in the body.
Q: HOW DOES ACUPUNCTURE WORK?
A: The core of Traditional Chinese Medicine is the philosophy that we all have a complex system of channels which flow throughout our body distributing Qi or Life Energy to all of our tissues. When there is an obstruction in the flow of Qi or an imbalance in the Yin and Yang, health problems arise. Acupuncture can help to remove the blockage and stimulate the body’s natural ability to heal.
Q: I KNOW ACUPUNCTURE INVOLVES NEEDLES. DOES IT HURT?
A: Generally speaking, Acupuncture should not be painful. You may feel a dull ache, perhaps a feeling of electricity or tingling, a sensation of heat or cold, or it may just feel strange. Sometimes you can feel Qi running up or down the body or a limb. The Acupuncturist may manipulate the needles to achieve better treatment results, and you may experience a vague numbness, heaviness tingling or dull ache. Occasionally you may like you've been stung by a bee. This should pass almost immediately, and does not have any lasting sensation. If it doesn't, tell your practitioner right away so he can adjust or remove the needle. Occasionally you may feel a throbbing ache, which may also be somewhat uncomfortable, especially if you are being treated for a chronic condition. At no time, though, should you have any sensation that is beyond your tolerance level. If you do, let your practitioner know right away. The fact is that the vast majority of clients report that, after a while, they begin to feel a real sense of well-being, almost euphoria.
Q: IS ACUPUNCTURE SAFE?
A: Acupuncture is safe when it is practiced by qualified Registered Acupuncturist. Needles used for acupuncture are fine, sterile, disposable, single use, stainless steel implements. There are virtually no adverse effects or complications because it is an all-natural, drug-free therapy.
Acupuncture is safe only when it is practiced by a qualified Registered Acupuncturist.
Q: I HAVE HEARD THAT ACUPUNCTURE IS GOOD FOR PAIN. IS IT GOOD FOR ANYTHING ELSE?
A: The list of diseases and conditions for which Acupuncture would be an appropriate treatment is extensive. Acupuncture is a complete medical system in itself, and is also an excellent compliment to almost any other treatments, including Western pharmaceuticals & surgery, herbal therapies, massage or Chiropractic.
Acupuncture is not a cure all, nor an aggressive intervention. It cannot, by itself, cure cancer, for example. It does not cure Autoimmune diseases such as Diabetes or Addison's Disease, or Lupus. If you break a leg, or are in a car accident, we would recommend you go to the local Emergency Room first, but come for Acupuncture treatments afterward for pain and to speed healing.
Acupuncture is, on the other hand, extremely effective, drug free, non-surgical treatment for the serious side effects of Cancer treatments and hormone replacement therapies for Autoimmune Diseases, post-operative pain, PMS and Menopause symptoms.. It should be noted that Acupuncture is not only good if you are sick or damaged. Even if you are not so sick, Acupuncture is good for balancing the body's systems and promoting general resiliency. It is particularly effective at treating emotional disorders such as Phobias, Grief and Anger.
Q: WILL ACUPUNCTURE INTERFERE WITH MY MEDICATION?
A: The short answer is no. A word of caution though. In some instances acupuncture may further the therapeutic effect of your medication, which in turn may require a lower dosage. If your medication dosage is sensitive, make sure you see your Doctor to monitor your dosages. It is never a good idea to stop taking medication without your Doctor's guide.
