What is Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine? Acupuncture is a method of Oriental Medicine that was developed over 3,000 years ago. It's purpose is to maintain health by inserting ultra-fine needles into designated points on the body. When our body is in a state of disease, it is out of balance. Oriental medicine looks to the following factors as contributors to this unbalance: lifestyle, genetics, mental/emotional state and the pathogens in the environment. By performing Acupuncture and prescribing Chinese herbal remedies we are able to influence qi and fluids to help guide the body back to a state of harmony. Acupuncture, however, is just one part of Oriental Medicine. Acupuncturists also often employ other modalities such as burning herbs near the skin (moxabustion), cupping, Tui Na massage, herbal remedies, nutritional and lifestyle counseling.
Why did you put that needle there? This is likely the most frequently asked question in any acupuncture clinic, so our friend and colleague, Andy Wegman, wrote a book all about it. He uses everyday language to help make Chinese Medicine understandable and it is by far the best source we know of. You can buy Why Did You Put That Needle There? on Amazon.
How does acupuncture work? Our bodies have numerous channels that are much like a freeway system, called meridians. The flow of qi, blood, and fluids should be smooth through these channels. Many things can hinder this freeflow (see contributors above), causing it to become blocked or deficient. Imagine a car wreck. Needling points along these meridians will stimulate it to move the blockage and restore it to a healthy state.
What does acupuncture feel like? The majority of the time acupuncture is painless. Some sensitive areas may elicit a slight pinch. With manipulation of the needle there may be a dull achy sensation which is the qi gathering at the point. Once all of the needles are in the patient can feel so relaxed that they could go to sleep.
What are Chinese Herbal Formulas? Formulas are blends of herbs from China, they contain multiple types of herbs that work together. These formulas are specifically picked for your pattern after a diagnosis has been made based on your pulse, tongue, and symptoms. Side effects are rare as the formulas are well balanced with the herbs in them and are tailored to your particular diagnosis. These formulas will supplement and reinforce your acupuncture treatments.
For some conditions herbal formulas may be more effective than acupuncture. Some patients elect to receive herbal treatment only.
Can I benefit from acupuncture if I am healthy? Absolutely, in fact this is the healthiest way to live. I highly recommend seasonal treatments as a preventative. It keeps the body balanced, helps fight off colds and flus and prevents bigger health issues from ever arising.
How many acupuncture treatments will I need? You can need as little as one treatment or many months of treatments. How many treatments you will need varies on how long you have had the problem, how severe it is, your overall health, and your motivation.
How long does an acupuncture treatment take? The first time you come in for a visit we will spend time talking, feeling your pulse, examining your tongue, and checking things such as blood pressure and other diagnostics needed to get the whole picture. This plus the treatment usually takes up to two hours. Follow up treatments are usually an hour long.
What are the acupuncture needles like and are they safe? Needles come in sterile packages and are immediately disposed of in a Sharp's container after use. They are ultra-fine and are often painless upon insertion.
Do you take insurance? For the price of a co-pay you can get a treatment at our clinic. We want to keep prices down and don't want them telling us how we can treat you, therefore we do not accept insurance, medi-cal or medicare.