Our Services – Acupuncture

What is Acupuncture?

• A clinical procedure rooted from TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine) which was developed in China some 5,000 years ago.
• Used to treat the root of many health problems without any drug or chemical side effects
• A natural means of restoring health and preventing future illnesses by changing the flow of the body’s energy system (or “chi”), the life force of our existence
• “Chi” (pronounced chee) keeps the blood circulating, warms the body, and fights disease; chi distinguishes living creatures from inanimate ones.
• According to acupuncture theory:
• Chi circulates in the body along 12 major energy pathways (meridians).
• Each meridian is linked to specific internal organs and organ systems and is named according to the corresponding internal organ it is linked to.
• Where there is physical injury, mental stress, emotional conflict or lack of inner spiritual resource, the natural and healthy flow of one’s “chi” – over time – will be impeded within the meridian system.

Traditional Method:

• Each meridian has specific points (acupuncture points) into which sterile needles are inserted and manipulated to re-establish the correct flow of energy.
• Healing results from changing the way a person’s life energy moves on all levels.

Electro-Acupuncture:

Electrical impulses are applied; often used when continuous stimulation over long periods of time is required

Acupressure:

• Application of pressure on the skin overlying the appropriate acupuncture point for several minutes

Moxibustion:

• Involves burning an herb called moxa above the point to be treated; moxa is a unique herb that stimulates acupoints and promotes healing. (Chinese herbal medicine can also be used in conjunction with acupuncture).

What happens during the initial acupuncture session:

• Diagnosis of the individual’s energy system is determined through the person’s medical and family history, individual lifestyle, current state of various functions (i.e., sleep, appetite) and the presenting complaint. This initial examination is critical and is the foundation upon which treatments are based.
• Further diagnosis is determined through practical observations such as facial colour, voice, pulse, tongue, emotional state and nature of symptoms.
• The necessary treatment is determined in order to re-establish the correct energy flow for the individual, which then allows the body to heal itself.

What will I experience during the first session?

• You may feel some heaviness, tingling, or electrical sensation up or down the affected meridian
  Any discomfort is usually mild and temporary
• You will usually feel deeply relaxed after the first session
• A person with complicated health issues usually feels a slight aggravation of the symptoms (a common feeling for the person who has taken numerous drugs or has a lifestyle that predisposes them to toxic overload). This aggravation of the symptom is a result of the acupuncture reactivating the energy system, nervous system and eliminatory organs which have been suppressed by drugs and toxins.

How should I prepare before a treatment? Is there anything else I should know beforehand?

• You should not be extremely hungry or overly full before each treatment.
• Try to relax before and after treatments.
• Bring a description of any medications or supplements you are currently taking.
• Pregnant women, haemophiliacs, people with blood disorders, cardiac pacemakers and communicable diseases such as hepatitis and AIDS or HIV should consult the acupuncturist prior to beginning treatment (some points cannot be used in cases like these).

Is acupuncture painful?

• Acupuncture is essentially a painless procedure. You will feel a slight pricking on your skin, and some tugging or aching sensation may be felt when the needle is first inserted but this passes quickly.
• During the procedure, it is important to advise the acupuncturist if you feel any persistent discomfort so that the needle position or pressure can be adjusted to eliminate the discomfort.

What conditions can be treated by Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is an ancient natural method of treating various conditions and has been used over centuries all over the world. According to WHO (World Health Organization), the following conditions can be treated through acupuncture: