FAQ's Acupuncture Questions & Answers Q: What is Acupuncture? A: “Acupuncture is a component of the health care system of China that can be traced back for over 2500 years. The general theory of acupuncture is based on the premise that there are patterns of energy flow (Qi) through the body that are essential for health. Disruptions of this flow are believed to be responsible for disease. Acupuncture corrects imbalances of flow at identifiable points close to the skin. The practice of acupuncture to treat identifiable pathophysiological conditions in American medicine was rare until the visit of President Nixon to China in 1972. Since that time, there has been an explosion of interest in the United States and Europe in the application of the technique of acupuncture to Western medicine.” (National Institutes of Health Consensus Development Conference Statement, November 3-5, 1997) Q: What can Acupuncture help? A: Acupuncture has been proven effective for a wide range of syndromes and symptoms such as Addictions, Anxiety, Arthritis, Asthma, Back Pain, Carpal Tunnel, Common Cold/Sinusitis, Cough, Dental Pain, Digestive disorders, Depression, Edema, Fatigue, Fibromyalgia, Headaches/Migraines, Infertility, Insomnia, Joint Pain, Menstrual Cramps, Nausea, Stress, Post Operative & Chemotherapy related Nausea & Vomiting, and Weight Loss/Obesity to name a few. Q: How does Acupuncture work? A: “Many studies in animals and humans have demonstrated that acupuncture can cause multiple biological responses. These responses can occur locally, i.e., at or close to the site of application, or at a distance, mediated mainly by sensory neurons to many structures within the central nervous system. This can lead to activation of pathways affecting various physiological systems in the brain as well as in the periphery. A recent focus of attention has been the role of self-produced “endorphins” (endogenous opioids) in acupuncture analgesia (pain relief). Considerable evidence supports the claim that opioid peptides are released during acupuncture and that the analgesic effects of acupuncture are at least partially explained by their actions… Stimulation by acupuncture may also activate the hypothalamus and the pituitary gland, resulting in a broad spectrum of systemic effects. Alteration in the secretion of neurotransmitters and neurohormones and changes in the regulation of blood flow, both centrally and peripherally, have been documented. There is also evidence of alterations in immune functions produced by acupuncture.” (National Institutes of Health, 1997) This scientific explanation by the NIH basically states that acupuncture stimulates points on the body that cause the brain and glands to release chemicals into the bloodstream that relieve pain, balance hormone levels, increase immunity, and induce normal organ function. Q: Does it hurt? A: The sensation of acupuncture depends on the location of the point, the sensitivity of the patient, and the performance of the practitioner. Many patients report little to no discomfort during needle insertion; in fact, most say the apprehension of “getting needled” is worse than the actual insertion. Once the needles are properly inserted, people typically feel a mild tingling or heaviness surrounding the needle and may experience a traveling sensation up or down the connecting meridian channel. Q: How deep do the needles go? A: Once again, the depth of the needle depends on the location of the acu-point. Some points require a deeper insertion to achieve the desired result while others barely breach the surface. Generally, needles are inserted anywhere from ¼” to 1”. Q: How many treatments will I need? A: While many acute conditions may be resolved in one treatment, most chronic conditions require a series of appointments. The first visit will entail a more involved intake process where the patient’s medical history, lifestyle, and current symptoms are discussed and evaluated. From that discussion and further observation including Pulse and Tongue diagnoses, the practitioner will devise a treatment plan that may consist of Acupuncture, Tui-Na (Oriental Medical Massage), Herbal Medicine & TCM Nutritional Counseling, flower essences, lifestyle adjustments, and various other manual modalities. The number of treatments will vary from patient to patient, but is usually a course of 3 – 12 treatments, once or twice per week with frequent health assessments. Q: What are the potential side-effects? A: There are very few negative side-effects associated with acupuncture treatment. Some minor side-effects may include mild bruising, soreness, numbness or tingling at insertion site. However, there are also some common beneficial side-effects of acupuncture as well; these include improved digestion, more restful sleep, reduced inflammation and swelling, increased energy, and overall constitution balancing. Q: What are Ryan’s Acupuncture specialties? A: 1. Cosmetic Acupuncture & Facial Rejuvenation – Popular among the wealthy in China, acupuncture facial rejuvenation has been practiced for thousands of years. A series of 2 treatments per week for 5 weeks is recommended for the greatest aesthetic benefit, where small, hair-thin needles are inserted into specific points on the face and body to illicit the movement of Qi and blood. (“Qi” is defined as the body’s vital energy or “life force.”) While not as dramatic as a traditional face-lift, acupuncture facial rejuvenation promotes subtle changes over time such as decreases in fine lines and wrinkles, increased tonicity of the skin, reduced inflammation, and other benefits associated with youthful skin. Monthly or quarterly maintenance treatments may be suggested to prolong the effects of the original series. 2. Stress Management – An individualized holistic approach to calm your mind and body, reducing inflammation and tension in muscles around the face, neck, and shoulders, providing an overall sense of health and well-being. 3. Weight Loss – Treatment protocols are chosen to address digestion, metabolism, inflammation, and water retention. 4. Anti-Aging & Longevity – Seasonal treatments for immunity and balance among organ systems to prolong healthy life. Treatments are specifically designed to regulate Qi and Blood circulation, providing nourishment to the skin and muscles. Suggested treatments may also include Herbal Therapy or Traditional Chinese Medicine diet recommendations tailored to the patient’s specific lifestyle. 5. Smoking Cessation / Addiction Therapy – Acupuncture for addiction and smoking cessation works to ease the psychological and physiological responses of withdrawal. Acupuncture helps the body establish a consistent equilibrium, preventing the cravings associated with the “ups and downs” of addiction. Treatments focus on detoxification, normalizing blood pressure, reducing anxiety and stress, boosting immune function, improving sleep, and increasing energy. 6. Pain Management 7. Headaches/Migraines 8. Depression/Emotional Issues 9. PONV (Post-Operative Nausea & Vomiting) Q: Do I need a referral from my physician? A: No; you do not need a physician’s referral to receive acupuncture treatments. However, it is recommended that you notify your physician if you are currently under his/her care. |
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