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Acupuncture & Traditional Chinese Medicine
Acupuncture & Traditional Chinese Medicine
Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medical practice that involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), acupuncture is based on the concept of Qi (pronounced “chee”), which is believed to be the vital energy that flows through the body along pathways called meridians. It is thought that disruptions or imbalances in the flow of Qi can lead to illness or pain. Acupuncture aims to restore the balance of Qi by stimulating specific points along the meridians, thereby promoting healing and relieving symptoms.
How does it work?
Many people assume acupuncture works by stimulating nerve endings to decrease pain. However, acupuncture functions more like energy traffic control. In Chinese medicine, it is believed that energy (qi) flows through meridians, akin to energy highways and networks throughout the body, much like blood flows through vein and artery networks. Acupuncture needles are inserted into these meridians to either draw energy to the area or move energy away from an area if there is a blockage of qi. The goal of Chinese medicine is balance—whether there is an excess or deficiency. We aim to restore balance to each meridian system with our needles.
Does it hurt?
Acupuncture needles are as thin as a human hair, making them relatively painless. However, everyone’s pain threshold varies. We strive to communicate closely with patients to understand their experience and make it as pain-free as possible. Generally, you may feel a tiny pinch upon insertion.
What does acupuncture treat
Chinese medicine is a comprehensive system that addresses a wide range of issues beyond pain. It can help with mental and emotional issues, hormonal imbalances, autoimmune disorders, fertility issues, digestive disorders, and, of course, pain!
ACUPUNCTURE
Acupuncture Technique
Moxa (Moxibustion)
Acupuncture with Moxibustion (Mugwort)
Moxa (Moxibustion) is a traditional Chinese medicine therapy that involves burning a herb called mugwort to promote healing. Moxa warms the meridians to expel cold, invigorate blood flow and qi, boost the immune system, relieve pain and inflammation, and enhance overall health and improve the efficacy of the acupuncture needles.
TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE
Traditional Chinese Medicine Techniques
Gua Sha
Gua Sha is a traditional Chinese healing technique that involves scraping the skin with a tool to promote blood flow and healing. This technique is commonly used to address to following:
- Promote blood flow
- Please tension and toxins
- Stimulate the immune system
- Pain relief
Fire Cupping
Fire cupping involves placing glass, bamboo, or plastic cups on the skin and creating a vacuum by briefly heating the inside of the cup with a flame. Once the flame is removed, a partial vacuum is created which causes the skin to be drawn upward into the cup. Here are some of the potential benefits associated with fire cupping:
- Improved blood circulation
- Muscle relaxation
- Pain relief
- Relaxation and stress reduction
Shen-Hammer Pulse Diagnosis
Shen-Hammer pulse diagnosis is a diagnostic method in traditional Chinese medicine used to assess the health and condition of a person by examining the radial pulse at the wrist. Developed by Dr. Leon Hammer and Dr. John Shen, Shen-Hammer pulse involves analyzing various qualities of the pulse, including its depth, strength, width, and quality, as well as assessing different pulse positions on the wrist. Based on the characteristics of the pulse, the practitioner can assess the functioning of different organ systems in the body, including the heart, lungs, liver, spleen, kidneys, and more. By identifying imbalances or disharmonies in the pulse, the practitioner will develop a personalized treatment plan to address the root causes of the patient’s symptoms.
