Frequently Asked Questions
What is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is the strategic placement of ultra-thin (think a hair’s width) needles in points that belong to meridians related to the issue at hand. This is painless and is often very relaxing. The goal is to renew the healthy flow of qi and to restore the body to balance. Diet and nutrition are an important component of all Eastern medicines. Food can be medicine; A conscientious diet is a powerful form of illness prevention and cure. Acupuncturists are well-versed in which foods can help not only your physical symptoms, but can balance your mental and emotional state as well.
At its heart, Chinese medicine is based on a strong mind, body, spirit foundation, and the belief that each individual is completely unique (there is no one size fits all diagnosis). With the use of acupuncture and/or Chinese nutritional guidance, a practitioner can improve your emotional wellbeing as well as determine how this may be connected to specific physical ailments, and can treat these simultaneously.
What is "QI"?
What is ‘Qi’? Each living thing, has “qi” (pronounced ‘chee’)— life force. Qi flows through the body in energy streams known as meridians, which are related to hundreds of points on the skin. When blockages exist in the meridians and the flow of qi is inhibited, health is compromised and pain or illness can result.
What can I expect in my first acupuncture appointment?
In the beginning of your first acupuncture appointment, the practitioner will thoroughly review your health history and current state. They will then do a comprehensive intake, determining both your health and main reason behind your health complaint or goal of the appointment.
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Your vital signs will be taken, including an examination of your tongue and pulse.
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Rest back in a leisurely position, while needles are gently inserted.
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Relax! You’ll have 28 to 45 minutes to reflect and rest.
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You will be checked on frequently in that time to make sure you are comfortable and to make sure the needles are doing their job.
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The acupuncturist will remove the needles and go over your treatment. After the treatment is over, the practitioner may recommend Chinese herbal formulas, nutritional supplements, dietary or lifestyle changes, and/or exercises depending on your condition.
However, after each treatment, you should feel relaxed and revitalized.
What are the benefits of having a personalized treatment plan with your acupuncturist?
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All natural and holistic, these treatment plans have no negative side effects.
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Cost effective. Powerful preventive medicine with long-lasting benefits.
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Feel better physically, mentally, and emotionally.
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Get guidance just for you. Treatments are tailored to each individual.
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With nutrition guidance, you can learn the tools to improve your health daily.
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Find out which foods relate to which emotions and conditions. Figure out what is helping you and what is not.
We believe that health begins within and radiates outward. Let’s start with the food you’re consuming day to day.
Learn to use small tips for big benefits!
What conditions can Chinese Medicine treat?
The following is a sampling of the World Health Organization’s list of diseases that can be treated by acupuncture. The inclusion of herbal remedies to the scope of practice may broaden the range of disorders that may be successfully treated. These are just some of the treatable disorders:
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Essential Hypertension
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Headaches and Migraines
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Trigeminal Neuralgia
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Paresis following Stroke
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Meniere’s Disease
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Disc Problems
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Muscle Pain, Swelling, Stiffness, and Weakness
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Localized Traumatic Injuries, Sprains, Strains, Tendonitis, Contractures
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Arthritis
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Fibromyalgia
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Work and Sports Related Injuries
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Acute Sinusitis
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Common Cold
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Irritable Bowel and Colitis
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Constipation or Diarrhea
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Depression
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Pre-menstrual Syndrome (PMS), Menopause Syndrome
Why is acupuncture so effective for pain and sports medicine?
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It improves the circulation of blood to the affected area.
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It creates an anti-inflammatory response.
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All natural and will not negatively affect performance.
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It increases endorphin release, which reduces pain.
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It’s holistic and promotes the body’s natural healing process.
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Tailored to each patient. No two treatments are identical, as no two patients are the same.
Why are acupuncture and Chinese nutrition great choices for emotional healing?
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Chinese medicine recognizes that your emotions are closely tied to your physical health. Your treatment will address both areas.
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Increases blood circulation and stimulates qi circulation, removing energetic blockages and restoring the flow of vital qi energy throughout the body.
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All natural with no side effects.
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Provides balance for your energy and hormones.
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Cost effective.
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Views each individual as a whole, and will take into account your physical symptoms and how they may relate to your emotional and mental state.
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Helps improve current issues and with continued use, is a powerful form of preventive medicine.
What emotional conditions can acupuncture treat?
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Depression
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Anxiety and panic attacks
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Insomnia
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Heartbreak
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Stress and high blood pressure. These are just a few of many conditions acupuncture can help you with!
What conditions can a combination of acupuncture and nutrition treat?
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Emotional conditions such as anxiety, depression, and insomnia
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Chronic digestive issues such as IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) or Crohn’s disease
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Stress and related high cholesterol or high blood pressure
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Fertility issues (male and female)
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Women’s health such as PMS symptoms, menopause, and breast health