How does TCM acupuncture work?

 

        Acupuncture involves the insertion of hair-thin needles into the skin at precise points known as acupuncture 

        points.According to traditional Chinese   medicine, acupuncture is based on the theory that an essential life energy, called Qi 

       (chi), flows through the body along channels called meridians. Each meridian is connected to a specific internal organ. When 

       the flow of Qi is blocked or out of balance, illness or pain results. The stimulation of acupuncture points along the meridians

       releases the blockage of Qi and promotes the smooth natural flow of energy, restoring balance and health to the body's

       systems.A more scientific explanation of acupuncture is that the stimulation of certain trigger points on the body by

       acupuncture needles prompts the body to release certain hormones and chemicals that can reduce pain, regulate the

       endocrine system, and calm the nervous system. The improved energy and biochemical balance produced by acupuncture

       stimulates the body’s natural healing abilities, reducing inflammation, and promoting physical and emotional well being.

 

          How many treatments will I need?

 

         It will vary from person to person depending on your age and health conditions as well as your response to acupuncture 

         treatments.For acute problems,only a few treatments may be required. In some cases, one treatment is sufficient. More 

         chronic or severe conditions may require two treatments a week for several weeks .Usually you will notice the changes of 

         your condition after 4 - 6 treatments.

 

           What If I Can Only Manage Once A Week?

 

          One visit per week can still be of benefit to you. Less frequent acupuncture is better than no acupuncture. If you are

        coming less often than the suggested treatment plans, you will still receive benefits; however it may take longer before you 

        experience the results you desire.

        

     Does TCM acupuncture involve only the insertion of needles?

         No. As an integral part of what in English is called Acupuncture, most practitioners are also trained to use a number 

       of adjunctive therapies.  These typically include Moxibustion, which is the burning of the herb Artemisia Vulgaris 

       Sinensis over the affected area to warm it, cupping, electronic stimulation, magnetotherapy and various types of 

       massage such as acupressure or Chinese TuiNa massage.

 

        Does TCM acupuncture hurt?

 

          People experience differing sensations with acupuncture. Most people find the treatments to be very relaxing, feel 

        no discomfort or a little stinging sensation, like a pinprick, during insertion of the needles. Once the needles are in 

        place, there should be no significant discomfort.  Acupuncture needles are also extremely thin—about 20 times  

        thinner than a typical injections needle.

         Are there risks or side effects to TCM acupuncture?

 

         Acupuncture is a very safe method of encouraging the body to promote natural healing and improve function when

         performed by a properly trained acupuncturist. Many people feel a brief stinging sensation, like a pinprick, during 

         insertion of the needles. Others experience a dull ache around the needle after it goes in or no discomfort at all. 

         Most patients find that the treatments are relaxing .

 

         People with pacemakers should avoid electrical acupuncture. Women in early pregnancy and hemophiliacs should 

         be treated with caution. All acupuncture needles (disposable needles taken from a sealed package) are sterilized by 

         manufacturers and for single use ONLY. Therefore there is no risk of transmission of AIDS or hepatitis viruses when 

         sterile disposable needles are used.