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What is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is an effective form of
health care that has evolved into a complete and holistic
medical system. Practitioners of Acupuncture and Oriental
Medicine has used this non-invasive medical system to
diagnose and help millions of people regain and maintain
health.
An Acupuncturist will place fine, sterile needles at
specific acupoints on the body. This promotes natural
healing by enhancing recuperative power, immunity, physical
and emotional health. It is a safe, painless and effective
way to treat a wide variety of medical problems.
What does the examination/consultation
involve?
What does the examination/consultation
involve?
An exam/consultation includes what you tell the practitioner
about your medical history and what your body says: The
appearance of the face and body build, the shape and color
of the tongue, the quality of the pulses, the feel of
diagnostic areas such as the abdomen and back. An
acupuncturist may test for weaknesses along the "meridians"
and weaknesses in the muscles. Sometimes devices that
measure electrical activity of acupoints may be used.
How long is the visit?
Usually the first visit is the longest
in order to allow for a complete history taking and exam -
typically an hour and a half. Follow-up visits are shorter,
typically one hour. Sometimes other therapies, such as
moxabustion, acupressure/massage and exercises are
incorporated with the acupuncture treatment. There might be
Chinese herbal formulas as well as lifestyle and dietary
modifications.
Don't the needles hurt?
Most people who have had acupuncture
would describe it as virtually painless or far less painful
than plucking out a hair. The sensations that follow range
from nothing at all, to mild tingling, to slight
numbness/achiness, to electrical pulsations in areas distant
from the site of insertion. All these sensations usually
subside once the needles are removed. The needles used for
acupuncture are much smaller that the standard hypodermic
needle, do not draw blood and are solid, not hollow.
What is treatment like?
Most patients would say, "relaxing."
Usually patients leave in less discomfort and are more
functional than when they walked in. Sometimes the effects
are too subtle to perceive, especially in the beginning of
treatment. Yet after 5 to 10 treatments the improvements
become more and more apparent.
Is it safe?
If performed by a qualified,
conscientious practitioner, yes. Licensed Acupuncturists
know the human anatomy well, and insert needles in a safe
fashion. The instruments used to penetrate the skin are
either pre-sterilized and disposable after a single use, or
disinfected and sterilized in an autoclave, as surgical and
dental instruments are, after each use.
The practitioner is well aware of the concern over
infectious diseases, and takes every measure to insure
cleanliness as all health care professional do.
Bleeding rarely occurs, unless done so on purpose in
specific situations. Even then the amount is minimal and in
no way dangerous.
How should I prepare?
1) Come with any questions you might
have, we are here to help you.
2) Wear loose comfortable clothing for easy access to
Acupuncture points.
3) Avoid large meals immediately preceding and after the
visit.
4) Refrain from overexertion, drugs, or alcohol for up to 6
hours after the visit.
5) Avoid stressful situations. Make time to relax. Be sure
to get plenty of rest.
What services can a practitioner of
Oriental Medicine/
Acupuncture provide?
Acupuncture, Acupressure/Massage,
Therapeutic Exercises, Herbal Medicine, Diet therapy,
Breathing Exercises, Referrals, Oriental Medical Diagnosis.
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