What is Acupuncture?
An ancient Chinese method of healing. It aims to prevent and cure specific diseases
and conditions by inserting very fine needles into specific points along the
energy pathways running the throughout the body. Acupuncture stimulates the
body's own natural healing ability to correct imbalances and restore it to
a healthy equilibrium. A Heat therapy called "Moxibustion" may be
applied in conjunction with acupuncture needles to enhance efficacy of treatment.
How does it work?
Chinese Medicine views all life to possess vital energy called
Qi (pronounced CHEE). Qi flows through specific pathways along
the entire body called meridians. Qi serves to nourish, warm
and protect your body. An obstruction to the flow of Qi will
disrupt normal physiological activities of the body, and if free
flow cannot be restored, illness will ensue. Stimulation of acupuncture
points along the meridians can help unblock and restore the flow
of Qi, relieving illness.
How does scientific research explain how acupuncture works?
Scientific studies have revealed that acupuncture stimulates the
release of chemicals in the central nervous system (brain, spinal
cord) and muscles. These chemicals alter the perception of pain
and trigger chemicals / hormone release which influence the body's
own internal regulatory mechanism.
How deep do the needles go?
Depth depends on the location of the acupuncture points used, nature
of your condition, your constitution and size. For example, needling
of acupuncture points on the head, fingers and toes are relatively
shallow compared to those on the back, abdomen or the legs.
Does it hurt?
Normal sensations elicited by acupuncture include heaviness, tingling
or sensation around or radiating up / down from the area of needle
insertion.
Are the needles clean?
Yes. All needles that are used are sterile and disposable for single-use
only. They are disposed of immediately after use.
How many treatments will I need?
This depends on the nature, severity and duration of your condition.
In general, for acute conditions: 1-3 treatments; chronic conditions:
5 treatments or more; degenerative conditions: regular treatments
over the long term. Michiko will suggest a treatment plan and timeline
at the first consultation.
Is there anything I need to do while receiving acupuncture?
The best thing to do is to relax and refrain from movement while
the needles are in. If there is any discomfort, please bring
it to the attention of the acupuncturist.
Do you accept health insurance?
You will be responsible for full payment of services rendered.
If your insurance policy covers acupuncture services, we will
be happy to provide you with a super bill, which is an invoice,
that you can submit to your insurance company for partial or
full reimbursement, depending on your policy. |
