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Does Acupuncture Hurt?
Most people are surprised to find out that acupuncture is not painful. Acupuncture
needles are very fine and are inserted gently into the skin with the use
of a guide tube. Once the needles are inserted it is common to feel deeply
relaxed. Acupuncture feels really good!
What is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is a safe and
non-toxic method for treating many illnesses and injuries, or to
increase one's physical and emotional well being. Very fine needles
are used to generate energy movement at specific points on the
body during a treatment. It is not uncommon to feel a tingling
or warm sensation throughout the body, leading to a deep state
of relaxation and meditative state of mind. Acupuncture energizes
our own bodies' ability to heal itself.
What is Chinese Herbal Medicine?
Herbal medicine
consists of blending individual Chinese herbs into formulas. The
formula usually consists of two to twelve different herbs. Herbal
formulas have demonstrated excellent results for thousands of years
and have fewer side effects than conventional pharmaceutical medications.
Traditionally the prescribed herbs brewed into a tea by the patient.
Herbal formulas now come in many forms: pills, capsules, granules
and tinctures, much more convenient and less time consuming than
the brewing of the tea.
How does Acupuncture work?
Chinese medical theory
maintains that the human body is a complex bio-energetic system.
The pathways through which our life energy flows, qi as it is called
in Chinese medicine, are known as channels or meridians. If the
flow or balance of qi is disrupted or damaged, pain, abnormal body
functions or disease will ensue. Acupuncture works by stimulating
the flow of energy at points along the meridians as prescribed
for a specific treatment. By balancing and regulating the flow
of qi, the body can then heal itself.
Although a great deal of research has been done, the exact mechanism
by which acupuncture works has not been pinned down by western
scientific method. One example is acupuncture's effectiveness is
pain relief, believed to be due to the triggering of the release
of endorphins, a natural pain reducing substance within the body
itself. Acupuncture has been proposed to also effect the release
of specific hormones and neurotransmitters as well as other body
regulating substances. Although unexplained, the benefits and results
are well documented, from ancient times to present day. Acupuncture
works!
Are there any side effects of Acupuncture?
The main side effect of acupuncture is a deep state of calm and
relaxation. You may feel a warm or tingling sensation throughout
your body. Though it is rare, a hematoma or a bruise may appear
at the needled site.
How much does it cost?
The initial office visit costs $75.00 and
each subsequent visit costs $60.00. Your health insurance may cover
acupuncture, and if so then your co-pay would be collected at the
time of your visit.
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