Acupuncture is a complete medical system that is used to diagnose and treat illness, prevent disease and improve well-being. It is effective for physical ,psychological and emotional problems. Acupuncture originated in China more than 3,000 years ago and, due to its proven effectiveness, has been embraced throughout the world. Recently science has determined that human beings are complex bio-electric systems. This understanding has been the foundation of acupuncture practice for several thousand years.
Energy , or Qi, circulates throughout the body along well defined pathways. Points on the skin along these pathways are energetically connected to specific organs, body structures and systems. If this energy circulation is disrupted, optimum function is affected and this results in pain or illness. Acupuncture points are stimulated to balance the circulation of energy which influences the health of the entire being.
Treatment with acupuncture needles is the most commonly used technique. However, other forms of treatment such as moxibustion (a form of heat therapy), electro acupuncture, tuina (chinese acupressure massage) could also be used. Dietary modifications and herbal prescriptions are usually helpful supplements.
Since acupuncture promotes the body's natural healing ability, most conditions can be corrected or improved. Also, acupuncture is a comprehensive system of preventive health care and health maintenance. The effectiveness of acupuncture is well documented and extends far beyond the conception that it is only useful for chronic pain management or as an analgesic. Many athletes have discovered that acupuncture treatment helps them to achieve optimum performance levels. Recently acupuncture detoxification treatments have been recognized as a valid form of therapy for chemical dependency problems. Throughout its long history, acupuncture has established a solid reputation as a system of health care that works.
Some examples of disorders treated by acupuncture:
Acnea Allergies/Asthma,Heart problems/Palpitations
Anxiety/Depression,High blood pressure,Arthritis/Joint problems,Immune system deficiency,Back pain, Infertility,
Bladder/Kidney problems,Knee pain, Childhood illnesses,Neck pain/Stiffness, constipation/Diarrhea,Pre-menstrual Syndrome
Colds/Flu, Paralysis/Numbness,Cough/Bronchitis,Sciatica
Dizziness, Sexual Dysfunction, Drug addiction/Smoking, Shoulder pain,Fatigue, Skin problems, Gynecological disorders, Stress/Tension, Headache/Migraine,Tendonitis,
Health maintenance, Vision problems
How Acupuncture Feels
Prior to their first treatment, many people do not believe that acupuncture can be painless. Different sensations such as warmth or pressure may be felt, but the energetic sensation differs from pain. People often comment that the feeling is unfamiliar but pleasant and relaxing. Acupuncture needles are very fine, about the size of a thick hair. They are solid and nothing is injected through them. Over the centuries, refined needle insertion techniques have been developed which enable the skilled acupuncture practitioner to place a needle with little or no sensation. If , during the treatment, you feel some tingling, or itching sensation…, it is the energy flowing thru the meridians; so, it is a good sign. In some cases it is not necessary to use needles at all. For example, when treating young children; infants, or sensitive adults, there are other techniques which are equally as effective. If you have a real fear of needles, discuss it with your doctor.
Always ask for the credentials of your practitioner. It is highly recommended to chose a doctor well trained in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM).
Traditional Chinese Medicine does not include only acupuncture but also nutrition, herbology, tuina (Chinese massage) and qi gong (meditations). Please read this month updated facts about qi gong (see below).
Your most valuable asset is good health. Invest in it wisely. Consider Acupuncture!!!
Editor's note: Dr. Trieu is doctor of oriental medicine, accupuncture who she also studied western medicine. She has a master's degree in qi gong and art.
For more information about Dr. Trieu and her practice click here.
