Acupuncture is Powerful Medicine
Acupuncture is powerful medicine, which aids in strengthening the immune system and serves to prevent disease, control pain, and can increase both the ability to function and the quality of people’s lives. Acupuncture is a well developed whole health care system based upon natural energetic laws. The principles and laws of acupuncture date back to over 5000 years and have stood the test of time.
Acupuncture is far more than just inserting a fine hair-size needle into a tender area to relieve symptoms. Those who receive acupuncture not only heal physically, but often experience a new and profound state of peace, clarity, and harmony, which often has lasting impact. Acupuncture addresses the root cause of illness through the balancing of energy. This increases the ability of the patient to adapt to life.
Many Conditions Respond
The World Health Organization of the United Nations has identified 40 conditions that acupuncture successfully treats. Of course, no practitioner can guarantee results. These conditions are listed below. Studies are released every month in professional journals from all over the world describing new uses. Acupuncture is used in a wide range of illnesses in many countries outside the Orient including Europe, Israel, Australia, and Russia. It is licensed in nearly every state in the United States. Western medical doctors have developed great interest in incorporating acupuncture, particularly as they have noticed its impact and success with addictions, AIDS, sport injuries, emotional trauma and pain relief.
Neurological
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Musculoskeletal
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Digestive
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Gynecological
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Eye, Ear, Nose, Dental
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Respiratory
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Emotional
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Other Benefits:
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How Acupuncture Works
Acupuncture works by balancing the body’s own energy system. There are pathways of energy in our bodies called meridians. There are 12 primary meridians. Most of the common acupoints are located on those meridians. Points are treated to restore the proper flow of energy. Treating these points is known to release endorphins from the brain to help control pain by influencing the central and peripheral nervous system. Blood flow is improved. Internal organs are affected and the body chemistry improves. This allows the body to heal more quickly and completely. For more scientific detail see the website listed at the end of this paper.
Oriented Diagnosis and Examination
Trained acupuncturists do not diagnose diseases like a medical doctor. Acupuncturists very carefully observe signs and symptoms to determine a “pattern” of energy imbalances and seek to normalize or rebalance the natural healing energies already in the body that control life.
Acupuncture points can be measured by computer testing. In the 1950’s, the Japanese developed an electrical diagnostic device, which can measure energy flow within the body. These results can be entered into a computer program to determine which meridians (pathways of energy in the body) need to be stimulated and which need to be sedated. This system is called Ryodoraku. It is very scientific and precise. The patient can take home a copy of their computer print out.
The acupuncturist will also sense the 12 pulses on the wrist that corresponds to the twelve basic meridians. There are six on each wrist – three superficial and three deep.
Acupuncturists are trained to keenly observe the patient’s posture, mannerisms, speech, tongue, skin, face, and emotions. A detailed questionnaire is given which would include symptoms as well as personal preferences.
Palpation of sensitive points helps locate some points. Muscle testing can also be used to locate acu-points that are in need of balancing.
How does an Acupuncturist Treat?
Acupuncturist may use their refined skills with one or a number of techniques to administer effective treatment.
- Acupuncture by the insertion of fine hair-like stainless steel needles is the most traditional. These needles are sterilized and used only one time and then disposed. Needles are in place 15 to 30 minutes on average.
- Electrical stimulation of the needles enhances the effectiveness of the needles and speeds healing. Points can be stimulated effectively as well without needles. The current is very mild and gentle.
- Acupressure is used with the practitioner’s finger, a blunt object, or a teishein, which is a pierceless needle that is use for tapping a point.
- Moxibustion is the burning or herbs on a point or at the handle of a needle to promote circulation and relaxation.
- Traditional Chinese Medicine/ Oriental Herbs are very effective at strengthening and regulating the flow of energy throughout the body as well as relieving symptoms. We have a complete oriental pharmacy, which can be applied to over 150 conditions.
- Nutritional programs are prescribed based upon patterns of disease and body types.
- Lasers are the lattest in Western acupuncture and are completely pain free, accurate, safe, and effective.
- Exercises such as Qi Gong not only strengthen the muscles but aid in circulation of vital healing energy.
- Small seeds, metal pellets, mini magnets, or 1mm needles may be taped on a point and left for one to three days to provide continuous treatment.
- Manipulation has always been a part of acupuncture. Chiropractic has developed this art, which is superior to Chinese manipulation.
If you absolutely hate needles or want treatment for a small child, we can easily use one of the above options in places of needles.
What Do The Needles Feel Like?
Most people are surprised and relieved to learn that acupuncture needles are very thin and not like hypodermic medical needles, which are big and hollow. Four to five acupuncture needles can usually fit inside a hypodermic needle. Acupuncturist can attain a high level of skill in gently placing these tiny needles and often the insertion is barely perceptible. The needles may be placed only a few millimeters deep or in some very muscular areas up to 3 inches deep. The acupuncturist will help you relax and receive the most value from your treatment. We do have phobia treatments for the fear of needles. After the needle is inserted you many feel “Tehchi” which is the healing energy of the body. This may feel like a vague heaviness, numbness, or a slight tingling. The treatment is effective even if the “Tehchi” is not sensed. Most patients find the treatment very relaxing and some fall asleep. After treatment, many experience a euphoric feeling along with profound peace and relaxation.
Safety and Side Effects
One of the greatest advantages of Acupuncture is the absence of serious side effects. Acupuncture is drug free, so you avoid the risk of drugs and their dependency. Tell us if you are pregnant. There are certain points that should not be used during pregnancy. If you have a pacemaker, we cannot use electrical treatments. Some people tend to faint when any kind of needle is about to be used. Let us know if you are like that or feel faint. Occasionally a small drop of blood is let when the needles are removed. Rarely there may be temporary bruising. If you are on blood thinner or are considered a “bleeder” let us know.
The needles are sterile and are only used once. There is no chance of infection. In fact, acupuncture needles helps conduct “Chi” energy, which helps the immune system kill infection.
As your body heals, it may go thru a temporary “healing crisis” as the body goes thru detoxification or makes a shift to a better more active level of healing. Sometimes your body may not be fully aware of problems due to the energy short circuits in the acupuncture meridian system. As acupuncture corrects these energy flow problems, your body becomes more aware and silent problems are able to be sensed. This is necessary for healing but may be temporarily unpleasant. If your body doesn’t know there is a problem, it can’t fix it. Whenever you simply mask a symptom by suppressing it with drugs, you may feel better, but healing is always compromised or slowed. Let us know so we can help you through this temporary situation.
There are no long-term negative effects. You are on your way to better health.
How Many Treatments are Necessary?
Each person is unique and will have an individualized treatment plan. No two conditions or people respond the same. The number of treatments depends on the type, severity, and duration of the condition, and the physical state at the time of treatment. An evaluation is done on each visit to assess your progress. In order to get the best therapeutic results, it is important to follow the recommendations carefully and keep your appointments. This is progressive healing taken in steps, each visit building upon the last. Acute (recent onset) problems are often resolved in 1-6 visits. Chronic (long standing) problems may take 12-18. I feel you should see some changes within your first six visits and if there are no changes are noted within 12 visits, we will help you find an appropriate medical specialist. We want to see you well no matter what it takes, starting with conservative, safe, natural care first.
Even if a particular problem is not helped, you may find benefit in other areas. Our further programs for health maintenance are designed and aimed to prevent and promote health and longevity, as well as vitality to life. Most acupuncturist recommend a “tune up” at the start of each season, about every three months, or whenever you feel the need whichever comes first.
Is Faith in Acupuncture necessary for it to work?
No. Acupuncture is a science based upon energetic principles. It is not dependant upon faith to work. It is not a religion. It works well on animals and small children who do not know what to “believe”. However, a good attitude is essential for all healing and a sense of well being.
I have observed that our will to heal is increased if we confess with our mouth the improvements that we experience. This is true of all healing arts. So, tell others of your benefits.
Who Should I see First, an MD or an Acupuncturist?
This is your discretion. It is strongly recommended that emergencies should seek immediate medical attention at a nearby hospital for such conditions as acute severe shortness of breath, acute dizziness, fainting, chest pain or pressure, bleeding, broken bones, and when tests and life support equipment may be needed. Some patients prefer a medical diagnosis before seeking acupuncture.
Acupuncture first aid can be given in certain instances, depending on the circumstances. Give us a call for a phone consultation if in doubt. We will be happy to refer you to another practitioner for a second opinion or treatment if necessary. Health care should not be competition, but rather cooperation. We will do whatever it takes to see your health return.
Will Acupuncture Interfere With Other Treatments or Medications?
No. However, we can test to see if your medication is unbalancing your energy flow of your body. If it is, we will tell you. The choice must then be yours as you consult with your doctor. .
Can Acupuncture Be Effective When Other Treatments Have Failed?
Yes. Each system of medicine has its own areas in which it has its greatest effectiveness. Acupuncture’s advantage is its diagnostic and treatment system with a broad and deep understanding of our energetic nature and the impact of energy in healing. It is not limited by western medicine’s assumption that disease is based in biochemistry. Acupuncture is powerful medicine which works, despite belief or unknown factors. The rule of thumb is that acupuncture can treat anything that has not caused gross organ changes. However, this is not a hard and fast rule. Usually anything that western medicine cannot treat well, Oriental medicine does. When in doubt, try it.
Can Acupuncture Help Senior Citizens?
Yes. Acupuncture is for people of all ages. Acupuncture enhances circulation, sleep, elimination, blood pressure, mental clarity, arthritis, and energy. In the Orient it is recommended for stroke patients as soon as possible and is helpful in eliminating or decreasing related paralysis. Controlled clinical trials in the Unites States have evaluated the use of acupuncture combined with standard stroke protocol for the treatment of paralysis due to stroke. Effective or markedly effective results were found for over 80 percent of the patients receiving acupuncture with a cost savings of $26,000 per patient.
Can Acupuncture be used with Infants and Children?
Yes. We use light pressure or massage to the points, painless and safe lasers, or mild electrical microcurrent which is not felt. Children usually respond very quickly. In the Orient, parents are encouraged to have their children checked every month as a prevention measure to help avoid many childhood diseases. Some conditions would be: Allergies, Asthma, Bed Wetting, Chest Congestion, Colds, Colic, Cries a lot, Diaper Rash, Diarrhea, Ear Aches, Feet turn in, Fussiness, Fever, Headaches, Hyperactivity, Insomnia, Learning Disability, Leg Aches, Poor Appetite, Pulls on Ears, Seizures, Skin Rash, Sore Throat, Spits up frequently, Stomach Aches, Swollen Glands, Teething, Vomiting
What if I am healthy? Can Acupuncture Help Prevent Future Problems or Enhance Health?
Yes. First of all, don’t be fooled by the absence of symptoms into thinking that you are healthy. Many disease processes can develop over years without symptoms until it is too late.
We live in a world that is stressful physically, mentally, and chemically. Acupuncture strengthens our resistance and allows us to better adapt to the world around us. Healthy habits to maintain our body are vital.
Acupuncture has traditionally been used as a preventative medicine. Recent research has now verified that Acupuncture stimulates immune function which increases your resistance to infections. Acupuncture can dramatically increase overall vitality and energy. It treats underlying causes, a deeper kind of healing. It effects profound changes in people’s lives on the emotional level as well. Many people find that an occasional tune-up is the best medicine to feel “insync” and insure continuing health.
Are you a licensed Acupuncturist?
Yes. You may check with the Indiana Health Professions Bureau. I am licensed under the Acupuncture Board which is under the Medical licensing board. I am also a licensed chiropractic physician. I am a member of the Christian Chiropractic Association and a diplomat of the International Academy of Medical Acupuncturist and the National Board of Chiropractic Examiners.
In the long run, Acupuncture doesn’t cost, it pays, by saving you hundreds in doctor or hospital bills, and time off work as well as adding quality years to your life.
A study in six clinics in five states showed efficacy and cost savings of acupuncture. Of the patients treated with acupuncture, 91.5% reported disappearance or improvement of symptoms; 84% said they see their MDs less: 79% said they use fewer prescription drugs and 70% of those to whom surgery had been recommended said they avoided it.
How to prepare for an Acupuncture visit.
The following procedure will help make testing more accurate and aid in your responses.
- Do not eat 2-3 hours before each visit.
- Drink lots of water before each visit.
- Do not take medications, supplements, alcohol, or have sex the day of your visit until after the treatment. Insulin would be an exception. Bring in all medications and supplements that you are taking.
- Women need to wear a blouse that buttons completely up the front so that it may be reversed for back Acupuncture if necessary. Otherwise a gown will be used.
- Wear loose fitting clothes so that pants and sleeves can be rolled past your knees and elbows.
- Do not wear bracelets or watches for two hours before testing.
- Bathe but use no body lotion or perfume before testing. You may use deodorant and facial make up.
After visit
- Drink lots of water after the visit to aid in the natural detoxification effects of
Acupuncture and to make the body more conductive to “Chi” or energy.
- Rest after your visit or at least take it easy.
- Refrain from or reduce caffeine, alcohol, cigarettes, and other drugs. Ask me if you need help with this area.
- Avoid any self-help remedies unless you ask me first. Instead of helping, they may be harmful.
- Get enough sleep, follow the diet prescribed, exercise or at least walk, and set aside time for spiritual/mental enhancement.
- Take the supplements that I prescribe and follow any directions.
- Follow through once the cycle of healing begins. Keep your appointments and call if you have questions.
More Questions?
During your initial treatments, you will be given the opportunity to view some videos about Acupuncture. We also highly recommend a book available for purchase entitled “Is Acupuncture for You” by Worsley. It is available in our clinic for $17.00.
If you have any questions, problems, fears, concerns, or emergencies please do not hesitate to call. I am here to serve you and give you the very best care.
