Medical Acupuncture

     The intent of acupuncture therapy is to promote health and alleviate pain and suffering. Although it may seem strange and mysterious to many, the method by which this is accomplished has been time tested over thousands of years and continues to be validated today.
     The perspective from which an acupuncturist views health and sickness hinges on concepts of "vital energy," "energetic balance" and "energetic imbalance." Just as the Western medical doctor monitors the blood flowing through blood vessels and the messages traveling via the nervous system, the acupuncturist assesses the flow and distribution of this "vital energy" within its pathways, known as "meridians and channels". Acupuncture is very powerful part of natural medicine which aids in strengthening the immune system and helps to prevent disease, control pain and increase both the ability to function and quality of people's lives. Acupuncture is a well developed whole health care system based on natural energetic laws.The acupuncturist is able to influence health and sickness by stimulating certain areas along these "meridians". Traditionally these areas or "acupoints" were stimulated by fine, slender needles. Today, many additional forms of stimulation are incorporated, including herbs, electricity, magnets and lasers. Still, the aim remains the same - adjust the "vital energy" so the proper amount reaches the proper place at the proper time. This helps your body heal itself.
     Acupuncture is just one form of therapy used within the coherent system of healing known as Oriental Medicine. Oriental Medicine includes herbology, physical therapy, dietetics and special exercises, and is a complete medical system unto itself and is not another branch of modern Western medicine. Acupuncture evolved from principles and philosophies unique to Oriental thinking and Oriental Medicine, and is most effectively applied when done in accordance with those principles.

In general, people are relieved to learn, that acupuncture needles are very thin, unlike regular hypodermic needles which are big and hollow. Moreover, the needles are usually inserted only several millimeters deep into skin which is very unlike hypodermic injections. After the needle is inserted you may feel nothing or sometimes a vague numbness, "heaviness" or slight tingling. The treatment is effective whether you feel it or not. After treatment, many experience a euphoric feeling - and often profound peace.

Among a multitude of factors, acupuncture affects sugar, cholesterol, and triglyceride levels in the blood, the functioning of the gastrointestinal system and the activity of the endocrine system. Acupuncture is highly effective not only as a preventative medicine, but as a drug free treatment of signs and symptoms. Studies indicate that acupuncture influences the central and peripheral nervous system. Evidence shows it releases endorphins from the brain which make acupuncture particularly effective in pain control and relieve.

Each system of medicine has its own areas in which it has its greatest effectiveness. Acupuncture's benefit is its diagnostic and treatment system with a broad and deep understanding of our active nature and the impact of energy on healing. It is not limited by western medicine’s assumption that disease is based in biochemistry. Acupuncture is powerful natural healer, which is working, despite different beliefs or unknown factors.

If you experience any of the following symptoms: difficulty breathing or shortness of breath; dizziness; fainting or feeling faint; pain or pressure in the chest or upper abdomen; sudden weakness or severe pain; sudden bleeding; injuries; falls; suicide attempts; and when surgery, tests, x-rays and life support equipment may be needed, it is strongly recommended that you first seek immediate medical attention at a nearby hospital. Acupuncture is not generally recommended for the primary treatment of severe infections, cancer, and heart failure. However, acupuncture has been found useful in easing the effects of chemotherapy and pain in patients with advanced cancer.