What is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is an essential part of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM),
a comprehensive system of healthcare with a clinical history of over
3000 years. Chinese medicine includes acupuncture and moxabustion,
herbology and bodywork, dietary therapy and exercise based on
traditional Chinese medicinal principles.
These therapies work with the natural vital energy inherent within all
living things to promote the body’s ability to heal itself. This system
of health care is used by nearly 2 billion people worldwide and over 16
million people here in the U.S.
How does Acupuncture work?
TCM is based on an energetic model rather than the bio-chemical model of
western medicine. The ancient Chinese recognized a vital energy behind
all life forms and life processes. They called this energy Qi
(pronounced “Chee”). In developing an understanding of the prevention
and cure of disease, these healing practitioners discovered that this
energy flows along specific pathways called ‘meridians’. Each pathway is
associated with a particular physiological system and internal organ.
Acupuncture points are specific locations along the meridians. Each
point has a predictable effect upon the energy passing through and acts
as a switch. By using combinations of acu-points energy can be moved and
balanced in the system. Modern science has been able to measure the
electrical charge at these points proving the existence of the locations
of the meridians described by the ancient Chinese.
TCM uses an intricate system of pulse and tongue diagnosis, palpation of
the abdomen, points and meridians, medical history and other signs and
symptoms to create a composite TCM diagnosis. A treatment plan is then
formulated to return the body to optimal health.
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Can Acupuncture Help Me?
Probably. The World Health Organization (WHO) recognizes acupuncture and
traditional Oriental medicine’s ability to treat over 43 common
disorders including:
Gastrointestinal Disorders
- Food allergies
- Peptic ulcer
- Chronic diarrhea
- Constipation
- Indigestion
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome
- Gastritis
Urogenital Disorders:
- Stress incontinence
- Urinary tract infections
- Sexual dysfunction
Gynecological Disorders:
- Irregular, heavy or painful menstruation
- Infertility in women and men
- PMS
Respiratory disorders:
- Asthma and allergies
- Emphysema
- Sinusitis
- Bronchitis
Disorders of the Bones, Muscles, Joints and Nervous System:
- Arthritis
- Migraine headaches
- Neuralgia
- Insomnia
- Dizziness
- Low back, neck and shoulder pain
Circulatory Disorders:
- Hypertension
- Angina pectoris
- Arteriosclerosis
- Anemia
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How long will it take for my condition to improve?
Many conditions may be alleviated very rapidly by acupuncture. However,
some conditions that have arisen over a course of years will be relived
only with slow, steady progress.
As in any form of healing, the patient’s attitude, diet, determination
and lifestyle will affect the outcome of a course of treatment. My
patients are encouraged to actively participate in the healing process.
While TCM can treat many conditions, there are circumstances that can be
dealt with more effectively by Western medicine. In such a case I will
recommend that you contact your physician. TCM is complementary to, and
not a substitute for, Western medicine.
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Does Acupuncture hurt?
Acupuncture needles are solid and much finer than the hollow hypodermic
type needles. In addition, accurate point location and insertion
virtually assures no discomfort. Most patients don’t even realize that
needles have been inserted. If you are afraid of needles there are many
options for treatment. Most patients find the treatments very relaxing
and often fall asleep on the table!
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Acupuncture and Safety:
What to look for in a acupuncturist
The safety and wellbeing of my patients is my primary concern.
Acupuncture has an excellent safety record. I am
comprehensively trained and am nationally board certified and licensed
by the State of Connecticut to practice acupuncture.
Acupuncture needles used in my practice are single use and disposable.
Needles are absolutely never reused and I strictly adhere to national
safety standards.
Read more about the level
of training your acupuncturist has.
(Word Document)
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