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What is Acupuncture and How Does it Work?
Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese therapy that consists of stimulating certain anatomic points on the body with
(sterilized) stainless steel needles, heat and/or massage. Acupuncture regulates various biochemical and physiological conditions in the body, harmonizes the movement of energy in the body by either stimulating or depressing
the actions of the internal organs, and treats the muscles of the body by manually releasing tight bands that reside within the muscle fibers. Acupuncture points are areas of designated electrical sensitivity or gateways
that allow us to access the pathways of the body's energy and correct imbalances. The needles stimulate sensory receptors and nerves that are responsible for releasing specific neurotransmitters that aid in pain relief.
Acupuncture has been practiced by people in certain parts of the world for over 2,000 years and has proven to be an effective method of health care. There are many theories that attempt to provide an answer for how and
why acupuncture works. Unfortunately, none have been intellectually successful or wholly demonstrable. It is not necessary to accept the principles of acupuncture in order to experience success; rather, until there is a
satisfying theoretical framework, we can view the practice of acupuncture as a working hypothesis.
Does Acupuncture Hurt?
Sometimes, but not much! As a culture we are needle- phobic. Our
first and usually only experience with needles is with thick hypodermics, which are hollow and cause pain. Acupuncture needles are extremely thin and solid. They are inserted quickly and shallowly. People are usually amazed
that feel so little. Only sterile, disposable needles are used.
Why Choose Acupuncture?
Drugs and surgery often precipitate negative side effects and can be quite costly. Acupuncture is a
natural, cost-effective option that has proven itself effective for over two thousand years. The whole person is treated: physically, emotionally and spiritually. When the energy of the body is balanced, the body begins to take
control of it's own healing process, making you less dependent on outside sources. The treatments do not cause side effects and when treated for one specific condition, people almost always notices other improvements in their
health. The process of acupuncture can be subtle and it is hard to put words to the sensations that one experiences from treatment.
How Many Treatments Will I Need?
That depends upon the
duration, severity and nature of your complaint. It is possible to only need three treatments for an acute complaint or 12 treatments for a chronic problem. Some degenerative conditions may require many treatments over time.
What Does Acupuncture Treat?
* Anxiety
* Carpal tunnel
* Chronic fatigue
* Depression
* Digestive disorders [Diarrhea, Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Constipation, Reflux
esophagitis, Nausea]
* Emotional Imbalances
* Facial Rejuvenation
* Fibromyalgia
* General well being
* Gynecological disorders [ Irregular menstruation, Dysmenorrhea, Amenorrhea,
Infertility, PMS]
* Headaches [TMJ]
* Heart Problems
* Insomnia
* Neurological dysfunction
* Pain [Back, Neck, Facial, Upper and Lower extremity]
* Respiratory disorders [Allergies, Sinusitis, Rhinitis, Colds and Flu, Bronchitis,
Asthma]
* Sciatica
* Skin disorders
* Spiritual Imbalances
* Sports injuries
* Stress
* Substance Abuse
* Tendonitis
* Tinnitus/ Vertigo
* Urinary dysfunction
JIPALA REICHER-KAGAN L.Ac
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