*QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS*
How does Chinese Medicine work?
The Traditional Chinese Medicine is based upon the law of Yin and Yang, the five elements, the channel and collateral theory, the four methods of diagnosis, the eight principal syndromes. The Traditional Chinese Medicine includes acupuncture, moxibustion, massage, and the Chinese herbs. The theory of Chinese medicine is that all internal organs and tissues in the body are interconnected through the meridians. The function of the meridians is to human body the circulation of Qi and blood in order to nourish Yin and Yang, and facilitate the bone, tendon and joints. Qi is the vital energy flow of the human body. A harmonious, smooth and free flow of energy indicates Yin and Yang balance and health. An imbalance, blocked or weak the vital energy flow causes an ill health or diseases.
What is acupuncture?
Acupuncture is a harmless procedure when administered properly by acupuncturists. To be effective, a series of treatment is required. The number depends on factors such as severity of the condition, length of time the condition has existed, general health of the patient, age of patient and the patient's living habits and diet. Acupuncture is the insertion of fine needles into the body at specific points shown as effective in the treatment of specific health problems. The Chinese has mapped these points over a period of two thousand years. Physicians insert very thin needles into points discovered empirically by the ancient Chinese. Needles are usually left in points for twenty to thirty Minutes. The treatment of specific points of the meridians acts to regulate or restore the energy circulation, which in turn relieves pain or restores function. Recently, electromagnetic research has confirmed their locations. Modern research has shown the body can release natural pain blocking chemicals called endorphin after acupuncture. Acupuncture can also increase white blood cells and antibodies, which increase the body's resistance to infections.
Does acupuncture hurt?
No. Acupuncture does not hurt because the needles are very fine and inserted superficially. Almost little or nothing is felt. As the needles are energized, a sensation of numbness, soreness, distension or heaviness may occur. This sensation is called "De Qi".
Are the needles clean?
Acupuncturists in America today is to use sterilized, individually packaged, disposable needles. Needles should not be saved and reused for later treatments. This eliminates the possibility of transmitting a communicable disease by a contaminated needle.
How does acupuncture work?
Traditional acupuncture is based on the theories of ancient Traditional Chinese Medicine of the flow of Qi (energy) and Blood through distinct meridians or pathways that cover the body somewhat like the nerves and blood vessels do. According to ancient theory, acupuncture allows Qi to flow to areas where it is excessive. In this way, acupuncture regulates and restores the harmonious energetic balance of the body. In Chinese there is a saying, "There is no pain if there is free flow; if there is pain, there is no free flow."
What can I expect after treatment?
You may note a spot of blood at one or more of the needle sits and/or a small bruise could develop. These should not be harmful, but please talk to your practitioner if you are concerned.
How many treatments are needed to be effective?
It is very difficult to give a general answer without a diagnosis. That depends upon the duration, severity, and nature of your complaint. You may need a series of five to fifteen treatments may resolve many chronic problems. Improvement for acute dysfunctional disease can result after 2-4 sessions. Some degenerative conditions may require many treatments over time. We suggest a schedule of treatment 2-3 times a week at first, and subsequent sessions may be spread out as the patient improves.
What is Chinese massage?
Chinese massage is also called Tui Na. It is one of the healing with various manipulations (about 20 commonly used manipulations) applied to certain parts of the human body (including specified passive movement of the limbs) to prevent and cure diseases. Direct pressure can promote local blood circulation, restore and treat muscles, tendons and soft tissues. Dynamic movement signals of manipulation can reflectively influence the physiological function and pathological state of body fluid, Qi and blood so as to recuperate medical function all over the body. The fingers direct press acupuncture points (also called finger pressure). The method can reduce pain and promote health.
What is the moxibustion?
The moxibustion is the application of heat to the acupuncture points by burning the herb (moxa). The herb burns at a low uniform temperature
