Acupuncture is a safe, effective and drug-free therapy that can help address a wide variety of common conditions and health challenges.
With the insertion of ultra-thin, sterilized-disposable needles into specific acupuncture points which reside on channels known as meridians, acupuncture causes a rise in endorphins, vasodilation of blood vessels, and a balancing of energy along the meridian systems. As a result, pain and discomfort is reduced and tissues recover through a natural healing process.
What is a Meridian Channel?
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, a meridian is a channel through which qi (energy) and other fundamental substances flow. They are known by many different names, such as acupuncture meridians, acupoints, and energy vessels.
The meridians function as a network, much like a highway system, that can be mapped out throughout the entire body. You could compare the term to the circulatory system in Western medicine, but meridians are non-physical.
DURATION AND FREQUENCY
Depending on the severity of the issue and how long a person has been experiencing symptoms, some may only need a few treatments to experience change. While others may need prolonged attention.
Initial treatments are generally once or twice a week. Frequency is decreased as the person progresses and improves until there is only a need for a regular checkup at the change of each season.
RESPONDING TO TREATMENT
Often the first changes that occur do not improve the main complaint, but rather the overall state of health. The person may notice that they sleep better, feel more relaxed and at more ease within their self – also enjoying an improved body temperature.
These are all positive signs of a better energy balance which if continued and supported will lead to an alleviation of the main symptoms. Every aspect of the person is affected by the acupuncture treatment and changes may take place mentally, physically or emotionally as the balance is restored. Reactions to treatment vary from individual to individual.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Initial consultations with treatment will last 60 minutes and a detailed case history is taken, followed by a pulse and tongue examination.
Acupuncture is not a quick fix! Healing takes time and the purpose is to support your self-healing systems. All situations and treatments are unique and at different times will have varied outcomes and prescribed duration of treatment cycles.
MINIMAL SIDE EFFECTS
Acupuncture treatment is very gentle with almost no side effects and works to balance Qi, circulation, and body fluids. The desired effect is dependent on the body’s current stage of illness, technique, a combination of point prescription and intention.
Occasionally, you may feel soreness or tenderness in the area treated. However, this is the body’s natural healing process taking effect.
CONDITIONS FOR TREATMENT WITH ACUPUNCTURE
Frozen Shoulder, Pain, Arm, Hand Pain and Numbness, Leg, Knee and Foot Pain, Sciatica, Back Pain, Joint Pain, Sprains, Migraines, Headaches, Neck Pain, Whiplash, Woman’s Health, Pregnancy, IVF Support, Painful Periods, Infertility, Hot flashes, night sweats and other menopausal related symptoms, Absence of period or Amenorrhea, Spotting, Heavy Menstrual flow, Irregular Periods, Recurrent PH Imbalance, Acid Reflux, Hiatal Hernia, Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Ulcers, Colitis, Crohns Disease, Chronic Constipation, Cancer Care including Side-effects of Radiotherapy and chemotherapy, Post-surgery recovery, Stress, Anxiety, Panic Attacks, Depression, Sleep Support and many other symptoms & conditions
Clients usually experience immediate pain relief after first treatment. If not, usually by their third session.
Not sure if acupuncture is the right treatment for your condition or pain?
Speak with our experienced acupuncturist Jonathan Zhang RAc. by booking a free 20 minute consultation service.