“Traditional Chinese medicine explains acupuncture as a technique for balancing the flow of energy or life force — known as chi or qi (chee) — believed to flow through pathways (meridians) in your body. By inserting needles into specific points along these meridians, acupuncture practitioners believe that your energy flow will re-balance.”
— Mayo Clinic
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is a safe and effective, natural way of treating pain and illness. Originating in China more than 3000 years ago, acupuncture stimulates self-healing by inserting very thin, sterile metal needles into the skin and tissues to stimulate specific acupuncture points. These points are located along energy pathways called meridians. Each of the meridians connects to a specific organ, which is responsible for various functions of the body. There is a constant flow of energy called “qi” through these meridians, and when flow of qi is disrupted, pain and illness is the effect.
Diagnosis
Diagnosing ailments is not as simple as treating a primary complaint, but treating the root of the ailment which is done though questions pertaining to diet, sleep, digestion, menstruation, mood, and examining the tongue and pulse of the patient. Time of day, season of the year, and other external factors are also taken into consideration when diagnosing. Once a diagnosis is determined, a series of points are chosen all over the body to promote the individual’s specific healing needs.
Traditional Chinese Medicine
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, good health is to be in a state of harmonious balance between yin and yang and the smooth flow of qi and blood through meridians and organs. Acupuncture used in conjunction with other Traditional Chinese Medical techniques, has been proven to have a positive effective on the body’s ability to heal. Cupping is a very popular technique used to remove stagnant qi and blood, to help reduce pain. Tui Na, a form of manual massage, promotes qi and blood flow, and relaxation. Gua Sha, the use of a jade stone to rub the skin, moves qi and blood and can reduce fever. Herbal formulas and diet therapy are also effective in treating both an underlying diagnosis, as well as symptomatic relief.