What is Acupuncture all about?

The intent of Acupuncture therapy is to promote health and alleviate pain and suffering. The method by which this is accomplished, though it may seem strange and mysterious to many,

The perspective from which an acupuncturist views health and sickness is based on concepts of vital energy, or "Qi" and energetic balance or imbalance.

has been time tested over thousands of years and continues to be validated today.

The perspective from which an acupuncturist views health and sickness is based on concepts of vital energy, or "Qi" and energetic balance or imbalance. Just as a Western medical doctor monitors the blood flowing through blood vessels and the messages traveling via the nervous system, the acupuncturist assesses the flow and distribution of this vital energy within its pathways, known as meridians or channels.

The acupuncturist is able to influence health and sickness by stimulating certain areas along these meridians. Traditionally these areas or acupoints are stimulated by fine, slender stainless steel needles.

Today, many additional forms of stimulation are incorporated, including moxibustion (see below), electro-impulse, magnets and lasers. Still, the aim remains the same - balance the Qi, so the proper amount reaches the proper place at the right time. This helps the body heal itself.

Acupuncture is just one form of therapy used within this coherent system

The acupuncturist is able to influence health and sickness by stimulating certain areas along these meridians.

of healing, known as Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Incorporated in TCM are Herbology, Tuina (a form of Physical Therapy), Dietetics and exercises, such as Tai Chi and Qi Gong.

Acupuncture evolved from principles and philosophies unique to Oriental thinking and Oriental Medicine, and is most effectively applied when done in accordance with those principles.

Some of these concepts are the balance of Yin and Yang, and interaction of the Five Elements: Earth, Metal, Water, Wood and Fire. These principles will be discussed with you as they apply to your individual situation.

What does modern medicine say about Acupuncture?

Conventional Western science often limits Acupuncture to pain control and analgesia. Neurophysiological experiments have demonstrated that Acupuncture modifies the transmission of neural impulses between the spinal cord and the brain, forming the basis of what is known as "gate control".

This theory claims that the action of the pain fibers in the spinal cord is blocked by Acupuncture. It is also known to stimulate the release of endorphins, the feel-good brain hormones produced by the body as a response to stress. The same process has been observed in physical exertion such as running or working out and is referred to as jogger's high.

Neurological theories might explain how Acupuncture interacts with pain, but they do not do justice to its diverse therapeutic effects. Acupuncture directly affects peripheral micro circulation, heart rhythm, blood pressure, levels of immunoglobulins, gastrointestinal peristalsis, secretion of hydrochloric acid and the production of red and white blood cells.

Acupuncture seems to adjust all the physiological processes of the organism, possibly through activation of the homeostatic function of the autonomic nervous system.

From the viewpoint of Chinese Medicine

In the system of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) the body is seen as delicate balance of two opposing and inseparable forces: Yin and Yang.

Yin represents cold, slow or passive aspects, while Yang represents hot, excited or active aspects. Health is achieved through balancing Yin and Yang.

Disease is caused by an imbalance leading to the blockage in the flow of Qi and Blood. When Qi and Blood are not flowing freely, the processes of regeneration and elimination become dysfunctional.

Acupuncture helps move Qi so that blockage is overcome, thereby restoring circulation, reducing swelling, alleviating pain and promoting healing.

Seen in this perspective, it is no surprise that many conditions can be addressed through Acupuncture, even though the treatment of blocked Qi, Blood and Fluids does not correspond to the Western vocabulary of disease.

What does Acupuncture feel like?

Acupuncture needles are used to access strategic points along Meridians, to restore flow of energy. These needles are thin as a hair, laser sharpened, and sterilized like surgical tools.

With the help of an insertion tube that is placed on the skin, a slight tap will guide the needle through the epidermis of the skin.

16 times thinner then injection needles, Acupuncture needles are painless. A mild tingling or heaviness around the point may be experienced. Shortly after insertion, most patients experience a level of deep relaxation - the "Serotonin" effect. Needles are retained for 5 to 20 minutes, and are always disposed of after removal.

Adjunct Forms of Traditional Chinese Medicine

MOXIBUSTION or MOXA

is a technique whereby the herb Artemis Vulgaris is used to warm and invigorate acupuncture points. It comes in the form of a cigar-like stick, held approx. 1" over your skin, and helps warm the point and invigorate energy flow.

TUINA

is a manual method of activating acupuncture meridians by deep massage-like motions to promote blood circulation. Tuina helps relief pain and stagnation, and may be used in treatment of children or elderly persons who might be too sensitive to tolerate Acupuncture.

CUPPING

is a technique that employs suction cups on distinct areas. It is effective in treatment of muscle injury, acute bronchial congestion, and joint pain.

ELECTRO-ACUPUNCTURE

is applied in situations of severe pain, for muscle toning, and to help improve athletic performance. This non-invasive micro electric stimulation has been shown to heal muscle and nerve impairments, and to help speed recuperation from stroke, neuralgia, and surgery. It is also used to help prevent scar tissue after surgery.

GWA SHA

is used to strongly invigorate an area or meridian, and bring old stagnant qi or blood to the surface. This method is often used in pain conditions, asthma, and bronchitis. A plastic cup or Chinese soup spoon is rubbed over the skin of the affected area. Often, deep red or bluish prickles come to the surface, and the area may look "bruised". The patient feels immediate relief of the affecting condition.

TDP HEATLAMP

is frequently used to warm the body. It emits the electromagnetic frequency of 32 different micro-minerals and has been found to contribute to the healing process.

It is usually used for 10 - 20 minutes.

Our patients refer to the TDP lamp as their beach, and find it pleasant and relaxing.

SHONI SHIN

is a specialized treatment for infants and children up to 12 years of age. A gentle tool is used to invigorate or calm the meridians, depending on the condition. All our little patients love shoni shin!