FAQs for Acupuncture
- How Does It Work?
The human body's energy flow courses over 12 meridians or channels that are normally well balanced. If a disruption of energy flow exists, it can alter the entire system, producing pain or symptoms in the body.
If we were to compare a 175 pound man on one end of a seesaw and a 47 pound child on the other end, it becomes obvious the seesaw would be "broken" due to the fact the heavier person would be sitting on the ground and lighter would be dangling in the air. Even though the seesaw is producing a symptom of being broken-extensive examination would not reveal anything wrong with the seesaw. The obvious answer is in the balance. Correction of the balance corrects the problem.
This is Acupuncture's goal-to restore normalcy to the body's energy balance by utilizing a combination of Acupoints located on the 12 meridians. This is accomplished by a variety of means, the needle is just one
- What To Expect From Acupuncture Visits
During your first office visit, the practitioner may ask you at length about your health condition, lifestyle, and behavior. The practitioner will want to obtain a complete picture of your treatment needs and behaviors that may contribute to your condition. Inform the acupuncturist about all treatments or medications you are taking and all medical conditions you have.
Acupuncture needles are metallic, solid, and hair-thin. People experience acupuncture differently, but most feel no or minimal pain as the needles are inserted. Some people feel energized by treatment, while others feel relaxed. Treatment may take place over a period of several weeks or more.
- How many treatments are usual?
The number of treatments will vary with different conditions and individuals. Chronic problems generally require more treatment than acute ones. Some patients notice an immediate improvement after the 1st treatment, whereas others many not notice any effect until the 7th or 8th visit. It's been shown that a certain percentage of patients receive maximum benefit up to 3 months following a course of therapy.
A small number of patient will receive a worsening of symptoms, as the body's energies are returning to normal. This is usual and no need for alarm. It is followed by improvement. Researchers internationally agree the usual number of treatments is between 10 and 15. Patients are usually seen 2-3 times per week.
Patients are urged not to enter an Acupuncture program with the thought of "taking a few" to see what will happen. You may see results after 1 or 2 treatments, but a program of 10 to 12 treatments is usually needed. Remember your problem usually didn't happen over night nor will it go away over night. Be patient...acupuncture works!!
- What Conditions Can Acupuncture Treat?
Acupuncture textbooks list well over 100 different conditions that respond well to Acupuncture. The World Health Organization, working in close harmony with the International Acupuncture training center of the Shanghai College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, has indicated Acupuncture is effective in the following conditions.
~ migraines ~ tension cluster and sinus headaches ~myofacial and low-back, neck, shoulder,knee pain
~prevention and treatment of nausea and vomiting(also due to chemotherapy and pregnancy)
~treatment of pain ~allergies ~anxieties ~depression ~fatigue ~addictions to alcohol and tobacco and other substances ~treatment of pulmonary problems such as asthma and bronchitis ~rehabilitation from neurological damage such as by stroke ~ trigeminal neuralgia~ bladder dysfunction ~bed wetting, ~tennis elbow ~ post-operative pain relief ~ gastric problems ~skin conditions ~ hemorrhoids ~ abnormal blood pressure ~ neurologic syndrome ~various eye problems ~sexual dysfunction ~osteoarthritis and arthritis.
This is only a partial list of the numerous conditions Acupuncture has been credited with helping.
