Acupuncture
How does acupuncture work?
Acupuncture works by restoring the flow of energy in the body. It is based on the ancient Chinese theory that Qi, or energy, moves through a network of meridians and channels that feed all of the tissues and organs of the body similar to the vessels in our circulatory system. Western scientific research has shown that acupuncture activates the immune system, releases brain chemicals that decrease pain and anxiety, and increases blood circulation. It stimulates the body’s natural healing tendencies leading to physical, mental and emotional well-being.
What does acupuncture treat?
There are a myriad of conditions that acupuncture can remedy. The World Health Organization states that acupuncture is effective in treating many medical diagnoses including:
- Cardiovascular Disorders: High blood pressure, high cholesterol
- Respiratory Disorders: Asthma, colds and flu, allergies, sinusitis
- Women’s Disorders: PMS, fibroids, perimenopause/menopause, endometriosis
- Gastrointestinal Disorders: Constipation, diarrhea, irritable bowel syndrome, acid reflux
- Musculoskeletal Disorders: Arthritis, low back pain, muscle spasms/strains, sciatica
- Psychological/Emotional Issues: Depression, anxiety, stress, insomnia/sleep disorders, irritability
- Miscellaneous: Chronic fatigue syndrome, obesity, sense of well-being
Is acupuncture safe?
The State of California licenses and regulates acupuncturists who must adhere to the rules and regulations of OSHA (Occupational Health and Safety Administration) protocols. Needles are sterile, one-time-use, and disposable.
Is acupuncture painful?
The needles used for acupuncture are hair-thin and solid unlike the large, hollow needles used to draw blood. The patient may feel the tap of the needle or a slight pinch as it is inserted, but this is momentary.
What can I expect from the first visit?
The first treatment involves gathering detailed information about your condition, investigating all the body systems, reviewing your medical history, and examining of the patient’s tongue, pulses, and pertinent physical issues. An individualized treatment plan is formulated and a prescription of acupoints will address your underlying disharmony. Additional treatment options may include the following: Standard and specialty laboratory tests, nutritional counseling, diet therapy, Chinese herbal medicine, supplement prescriptions, micro current/electric stimulation, moxibustion and lifestyle/stress management.
What can I expect from the acupuncture treatment?
The patient reclines on a massage table under dimmed lighting and soft music. Loose clothing is preferable for ease of access to the body. Needles are inserted for 20-40 minutes. Most patients experience deep relaxation or sleep. Many patients notice that they can maintain this relaxed state for hours and even days.
How does acupuncture work with naturopathic medicine?
Both systems adhere to similar principles and theories, and thus compliment each other well. Finding root causes of disease, preventing disease, and maintaining a balance of mind, body, and spirit are cornerstones of each. Combining the systems allows patients to reach their optimal health potential.
Does insurance cover acupuncture?
Yes, depending on your plan. Check with your insurance company and particular plan. A receipt with appropriate diagnostic codes will be provided for you to submit to your insurance company regardless of coverage.
How many treatments will I need?
The number of treatments needed depend on the nature, severity, and duration of your condition and your overall health. Many issues resolve in 5-10 treatments, but chronic conditions may require more sessions. The majority of patients will be seen 1 time a week, but severe issues may require 2-3 sessions a week.
Herbology
Herbs have been applied for healing ailments for thousands of years by supporting the body’s self healing ability. Herbal combinations can be modified to serve a client’s specific needs. When used synergistically with other healing modalities herbal formulas have proven to enhance the efficacy of treatments. Herbs nourish us physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. When we take herbs the essence enters the acupuncture meridian and adjusts the vital flow of energy in the body. Herbs are strong foods, so by eating them we enrich ourselves with a powerful energetic form of nutrients. The energetic classification of herbs is a science which has been refined over the last 3000 years. Further refining is done today to keep up with evolving disease states.
At LotusRain Naturapathic Clinic our goal is to provide patients with the safest and most effective integrative forms of healthcare. Acupuncture an Herbology are just two examples of how this can be done for you.
