WHAT IS ACUPUNCTURE?
Acupuncture, simply stated, is a health science which is used to successfully treat both pain and dysfunction in the body.
Acupuncture has its root deeply planted in China. In fact, authorities agree the science is between 5,000 and 7,000 years old. Its use spread throughout ancient Egypt, the Middle East, and the Roman Empire and later into Western Europe as merchants and missionaries to China told of the amazing discoveries the people of the Orient had developed. Acupuncture did not become known on a national level in the U.S. until 1971 when diplomatic relations between China and America were relaxed.
Early Chinese physicians discovered there is an energy network transversing just below the surface of the skin which communicates from the exterior to the internal organs and structures at over 1,000 “Acupoints” on the body. This energy works in harmony with the body’s circulatory, nervous, muscular, digestive, genitourinary and all other systems of the body. When this vital energy becomes blocked or weakened, an effect in a body system or anatomic location becomes evident. Stimulation or one or a combination of key ‘Acupoints: on the body may restore harmony to the affected area.
Historians have stated, “More people have benefited from Acupuncture over the course of fifty centuries than the combined total of all other healing sciences, both ancient and modern.
ELECTRO MERIDIAN IMAGING (EMI)
EMI is utilized in our clinic was developed by Japanese acupuncture practitioners.
EMI or Ryodoraku is essentially a “snap-shot” of your meridians. Based on your EMI, acupuncture points are then chosen to elicit a very specific effect.
The skin over-lying meridians is less resistant to electrical conduction. Similar to ECG (electrocardiogram) utilizing signals picked up through the skin from underlying tissues like to the heart and brain. Depending on the activity level of the underlying electro-magnetic emission, meridians can be categorized as “normal” or "abnormal” skin electro-conductivity. This is the theory behind the EMI (electro meridian imaging) or Ryodoraku assessment.
Acupuncture points are also selected based on clinical presentation and symptomology of each patient, i.e. headache, low back pain, heartburn, infertility, etc. These points are traditional points known historically to have specific, condition-specific effects. The concept behind this approach is to support the body’s systems from the ground up. By supporting the intended function of the body, through correcting the “framework”, we help it heal and get rid of pain and dysfunction.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How long does it last?
The length of time depends on two main factors:
* How long the problem has been there.
* How severe the dysfunction is.
Does Acupuncture Hurt?
The most common sensations with needle acupuncture are:
1. No sensation at all.
2. A deep warming sensation that can travel from the needle location outwards,
usually toward the hands and feet.
3. A small pinch (many patients compare to a mosquito bite), as the needle breaks the
very top layer of skin where superficial nerves are situated followed by almost immediate dissipation.
I do not like to have my blood drawn, does acupuncture feel similar?
Hypodermic needles, like the kind used to draw a blood sample, are hollow tubes that have a sharp point. This sharp point is now an elliptical cutting edge that allows fluids to be passed either in or out via the opening. This can be painful.
- The shaft of the needle is a solid piece of metal. There is no opening or cutting edge, only a very fine point.
- The needle is many times smaller than the standard gauge hypodermic needle used in blood draws. In fact, multiple (4-5) acupuncture needles can be inserted into the hollow OPENING of a hypodermic needle.
Is acupuncture safe?
All of the needles that we use are sterilized and sealed in the manufacturers’ packaging designed for one-time-use. Once they are used they are discarded and never used again.
Will acupuncture interfere with my religious beliefs?
NO, Acupuncture is simply a tool that helps the body heal, it is NOT a belief system or some type of “magic". Acupuncture is a learned skill that is applied just like any other skill.
How many treatments will it take to get better?
A noticeable and positive change in your condition is usually expected within 3-6 treatments; however, I have had people that require only one or two treatments. Although this is not the normal, it can be that quick.
In general, if the condition does not respond within 5-6 treatments or if the improvements plateau despite treatment modifications, therapy is generally discontinued and alternatives are sought out. Depending on the long-term or permanent treatment goals, acupuncture treatments can continue for 12-20 treatments. Again, the more time the dysfunction has been present the longer it will probably take to affect and resolve. Some conditions may require ongoing pain control.
