WHAT IS ACUPUNCTURE

The use of acupuncture is fairly new to the United States and Europe, though it has been used in Asian countries, mainly China, for thousands of years. There’s a good reason to why it is still used today, which is why millions of Americans have utili this natural method. Researchers are reporting the many benefits to acupuncture such as an increase in the longevity of life and treatment of illnesses and serious diseases.

How does acupuncture work?

Oriental medicine states that our constitution is regulated by the flow of our life energy (Qi). When our Qi imbalances can arise such as a weakened immune system, cold, flu, stress, depression, and can even lead to more chronic illnesses like diabetes or cancer. Acupuncture can restore the flow of our Qi which not only can resolve the condition, but enhance our lives overall. Acupuncturists do this by stimulating specific points on your body, called acupuncture points, with a thin, sterile needle. Although the use of acupuncture needles is the most common, there are four different methods an acupuncturist may use depending on the condition being treated.

Alternate Method #1: Electroacupuncture
This is a technique where needles are still used, but they are electrically charged. Often used for managing chronic pain conditions.

Alternate Method #2: Moxibustion
There are a variety of ways this technique is used, though the most common involves burning moxa herb directly over the acupuncture points. Don’t worry, it doesn’t hurt in the least.

Alternate Method #3: Cupping
This is a form of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) where a cup or jar creates suction on the skin causing blood to flow to that area. Is has been used even more since the USA swim team featuring Michael Phelps in the 2012 Summer Olympics were seen with cupping marks on their backs to relieve muscle strain.

Alternate Method #4: Acupressure
Instead of a needle, the points are massaged or held with pressure to be stimulated.

What conditions does acupuncture treat?

It has been reported by the World Health Organization that acupuncture and oriental medicine techniques have been successfully used for the treatment and managing of varying conditions which include:

Acupuncture’s efficacy on even more illnesses and diseases are being researched. It is a well known fact acupuncture and oriental medicine can effectively treat common maladies. Unlike drugs, Acupuncture doesn’t have any negative side effects. You’ll notice that after receiving acupuncture not only will the symptoms of your condition be lessened, but you will feel much more energized and relaxed.

When can I come in?

Contact Laurie to make an appointment ASAP. To speed up the process, make a deposit for your first appointment here.

Top Four Advantages of Using Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine

Alternative medicine, including traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and acupuncture, has been practiced by many cultures for thousands of years. In fact, the World Health Organization estimates between 65 and 80 percent of the world’s population use alternative medicine as their main type of health care. Recognizing its many advantages, TCM has gained in popularity in the West in recent decades. The American Medical Association passed a resolution stating it is “encouraging its members to become better informed regarding alternative (complimentary) medicine and to participate in appropriate studies of it.” What are the advantages of using acupuncture and traditional Chinese medicine? Consider our top four.

1. Promotes holistic treatment. TCM teaches a practitioner to evaluate the entire mind and body of the patient, recognizing the two play an integral role. Persons are not treated simply as patients with symptoms and diseases. Instead, practitioners are trained to look for the root cause of health problems, providing treatment that stimulates the body’s natural healing ability.
2. Minimizes side effects. Invasive procedures and drug therapies cause numerous side effects and can build toxicity in the body. TCM minimizes those side effects since it seeks to promote natural remedies.
3. Enhances overall health. Medical studies have shown that when TCM is combined with conventional medical procedures, the outcome for the patient is better. A person’s general health and endocrine system are improved and balanced so that procedures such as IVF, GIFT, ZIFT, ICSI, AHT and TET are more effective. For example, acupuncture and herbal regimes have proven effective for those experiencing fertility problems. TCM improves conception rates, health during pregnancy and postpartum recuperation.
4. Easily integrated. While TCM is effective on its own, integration with Western medicine has shown the most success. The Orient began this practice less than 100 years ago, referring to it as Integral Chinese Medicine (ITCM). The proven ancient medical techniques of acupuncture and herbs combined with modern medicine is an integrated system that provides the best patient outcomes.

Laurie Binder is ready to provide you with the highest standard of alternative medical care. Contact her to learn more about how you can benefit.