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Acupuncture FAQs

 

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Dr. Teng gently applies acupuncture needles
Dr. Chunyan Teng gently applies acupuncture needles to selected meridians

 

What is Qi?

At the core of this ancient medicine is the philosophy that Qi (pronounced "chee"), or life energy, flows throughout the body. Qi animates the body and protects it from illness, pain, and disease. A person's health is influenced by the quality, quantity, and balance of Qi.

See the Acupuncture Today article called "What Is Qi?" at: http://www.acupuncturetoday.com/archives2004/sep/09lo.html.

 

What is acupuncture?

Acupuncture has a well-documented history in China spanning over 2,000 years, but some studies believe it originated almost 4,000 years ago. In fact, examples of the earliest acupuncture needles made of stone and ceramic predate the development of iron. Acupuncture and Chinese medicine are safe, effective, and drug-free therapies that help address a wide variety of common ailments. Acupuncture is a form of health care that has evolved into a complete and holistic medical system. Practitioners of acupuncture and Chinese medicine have used this non-invasive medical system to diagnose and help millions of people over thousands of years become well and stay well. Acupuncture promotes natural healing. It can enhance recuperative power and immunity, support physical and emotional health, and improve overall functioning and well-being. It is a safe, painless, and effective way to treat a wide variety of medical problems.

 

What does an acupuncturist do?

During the initial exam, a full health history will be taken. Questions are asked regarding health, symptoms and life-style. Pulse and tongue diagnosis, along with an appropriate  physical exam, is conducted. The information is then organized into a well-structured treatment plan that enables the practitioner to diagnose imbalances of Qi  that may have contributed to the patient’s health problem. Once the imbalance of Qi is detected, the acupuncturist places fine, sterile needles at acupoints along meridian pathways. This safe and painless procedure can unblock obstructions and re-balance Qi. Then, Qi circulates freely throughout the body, providing adequate nourishment to cells, organs, glands, tissues and muscles. This eliminates pain, and restores balance and harmony along with the body’s natural ability to heal itself -- ultimately leading to optimal health and well-being.

What ailments does acupuncture treat?

Acupuncture is recognized by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the World Health Organization (WHO).

Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine have been proven effective in treating the following ailments:

Addiction: alcohol, drug, and smokingIndigestion
AnxietyIrritable bowel syndrome
ArthritisLow back pain

Asthma

Menopause

Bronchitis

Menstrual irregularities

Carpal tunnel syndrome

Migraine

 Chronic fatigue

Morning sickness

Colitis

Nausea
Common Cold

Osteoarthritis

ConstipationPMS
Dental PainPneumonia
DepressionReproductive problems
Diarrhea

Rhinitis

Digestive trouble

Sciatica

DizzinessSeasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)

Dysentery

Shoulder pain
Emotional problems

Sinusitis

Eye problemsSleep disturbances

Facial paralysis

Sore throat
FatigueTennis elbow
Fertility

Tonsillitis

Fibromyalgia

Tooth pain

Gingivitis

Trigeminal neuralgia

HeadacheUrinary tract infections
Hiccups (severe)Vomiting

Incontinence

Wrist pain

What can I expect from acupuncture treatment?

When tiny needles are inserted, you may experience tingling or warmth. Patients are often surprised to find that treatments are quite relaxing. Generally, acupuncture is gentle with minimum side effects. If you experience fatigue after treatment, a little rest should overcome it. If symptoms persist for a day or two, this is not a cause for concern.

 

What should I do on the day of treatment?

Eat a light meal half an hour before the treatment. Plan to get some rest afterward. Wear loose, comfortable clothing or bring a change of clothes

 

What is acupressure (Tui Na)?

Finger pressure stimulates both deep tissue and surface muscles at acupoints. Pressure on combinations of acupoints helps open and balance restricted energy pathways, thus promoting the flow of Qi and blood in the meridians and their collaterals.

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