What is it?
Acupuncture is a method of encouraging the body to promote natural healing and to improve functioning. This is done by inserting needles and applying heat or electrical stimulation at very precise acupuncture points.
What Does Acupuncture Treat?
Then National Institute of Health has concluded that acupuncture (and Chinese medicine) is effective in treating more than forty different categories of diseases including but not limited to:
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- Pain Management from acute injuries or chronic conditions such as headache, arthritis, joint pain and swelling, fibromyalgia, bursitis, back and neck pain, whiplash, sciatica, and carpal tunnel syndrome
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- Digestive problems such as colitis, constipation, diarrhea, diverticulitis, gall bladder disorders, indigestion, gas and hemorrhoids
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- Gynecological concerns including PMS, menopause, infertility, and pregnancy symptoms
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- Allergies, sinus, cough, and other respiratory problems
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- colds, flu, and sore throat
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- Circulatory issues and blood pressure
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- Urinary and kidney problems
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- Depression, nervousness, and insomnia
What to expect in an acupuncture session?
The initial appointment includes a health history, assessment, and acupuncture treatment. Depending on the complexity of the client’s health problems, this session can take up to 2 hours. Subsequent sessions last an hour.
The frequency of visits is determined by the client’s problem, but typically once a week is adequate until the symptoms are alleviated. The acupuncture treatments can be spaced further apart as the condition improves.
Generally, there is no pain upon insertion of the needles. Often the client only feels the plastic guide tube on the surface of the skin and the tapping motion to place the needle. Occasionally, if a point is sensitive, there can be a brief sharp sensation. If the client feels any lasting discomfort, the needle can be repositioned.
The needles stay in for 20-30 minutes which gives the body’s energies time to re balance. Often clients achieve a very deep relaxed state and even fall asleep. Although most people feel relief right after the treatment, the benefits peak between 48 and 72 hours afterwards.