UNDERSTANDING ACUPUNCTURE

Acupuncture points are stimulated via needles, or pressure, to restore the proper circulation of ‘qi’ which helps bring the body back into a balanced and healthy state. While Western medicine focuses on treating symptoms, Chinese medicine’s goal is to treat the root cause of the illness while alleviating accompanying symptoms.

An ancient history

Originating in China over 3,000 years ago, acupuncture is the oldest continually practiced medical system in the world. The ancient Chinese recognized the vital energy behind all of life’s processes. It is believed that this energy, called “qi” (pronounced “chee”), circulates throughout the body along meridians or channels. If this energy flow is disrupted, normal physiological function is affected resulting in pain or illness.

WHAT CAN I EXPECT FROM MY FIRST TREATMENT?

Your first appointment is an opportunity for you to tell us about your symptoms, and will typically include:

• A complete health history intake

• Chinese pulse and tongue diagnosis

• Acupuncture treatment (needle retention)

• Other Traditional Chinese therapies as needed (ie. Moxabustion, cupping, Gua Sha)

• Chinese herbal recommendations (as needed)

• Dietary/lifestyle recommendations

COMMONLY TREATED CONDITIONS

A committee of the United Nations World Health Organization and the National Institute of Health have endorsed acupuncture as safe and effective treatment for a wide range of conditions including: