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Acupuncture
Patient Testimony
Acupuncture is a complete medical system that is used to diagnose and treat illness, prevent disease and improve well being. It is effective for physical, psychological and emotional problems. Acupuncture originated in China more than 3,000 years ago and, due to its proven effectiveness, has been embraced throughout the world. In 1995, FDA approved acupuncture as a viable medical treatment option. In 1996, NIH expert panel recognized acupuncture as an effective regimen in the treatment of some illnesses.
HOW ACUPUNCTURE WORKS
There are many theories. But none completely explains its effects. Traditionally, it is believed that energy circulates throughout the body along well defined pathways. If this energy circulation is disrupted, optimum function is affected and this results in pain or illness. Acupuncture points along these pathways can be stimulated to restore the balance of energy, which influences the health of the entire being.
Recently, scientists have found naturally occurring substance called endorphins that are released during acupuncture treatment. These chemicals appear to modulate pain perceptions experienced by patients. By releasing these chemicals, acupuncture is believed to decrease pain sensations.
TYPES OF TREATMENT
Treatment with acupuncture needles is the most commonly used technique and the most effective. However, acupuncturists may utilize other forms of treatment such as herbal treatments, movement techniques and a variety of massages. They may also recommend dietary modifications and specific therapeutic exercises.
BENEFITS
Since acupuncture promotes the body?s natural healing ability, most conditions can be corrected or improved. Also, acupuncture is a comprehensive system of preventive health care and health maintenance. The effectiveness of acupuncture is well documented and extends far beyond the conception that it is only useful for chronic pain management or as an analgesic. Many athletes have discovered that acupuncture treatment helps them to achieve optimum performance levels. Recently, acupuncture detoxification treatments have been recognized as a valid form of therapy for chemical dependency problems. Throughout its long history, acupuncture has established a solid reputation as a system of health care that works.
COMMONLY TREATED CONDITIONS
Acupuncture can treat post-surgical pain, post-dental procedure pain and post-chemotherapy nausea and vomiting. In addition, acupuncture can also treat:
And many more ? To be sure acupuncture is the right treatment; please call 480-888-1900.
HOW ACUPUNCTURE FEELS
Prior to their first treatment, many patients do not believe that acupuncture can be painless. Different sensations such as warmth or pressure may be felt, but the energetic sensation differs from pain. Patients often comment that the feeling is unfamiliar but pleasure and relaxing.
Acupuncture needles are very fine, about the size of a thick hair. They are solid and nothing is injected through them. Over the centuries, refined needle insertion techniques have been developed which enable the skilled acupuncture practitioner to place a needle with little or no sensation.
In some cases it is not necessary to use needles at all. For example, when treating young children, infants, or sensitive adults, there are other techniques that are almost as effective. If you have a real fear of needles, discuss it with your acupuncturist. An appropriate treatment strategy can always be agreed upon.
NUMBER OF TREATMENTS
Since each person is unique, the number of treatments needed is varying. Among the determining factors are the type of condition, whether the condition is chronic or acute, and the health status of the individual. Again, you should discuss your treatment program with your acupuncture practitioner.
SAFETY
In order to assure your compete confidence, acupuncture practitioners use pre-sterilized, disposable needle. The use of disposable sterilized needles eliminates the possibility of transmitted disease, i.e. NO HIV, NO hepatitis, NO bacterial contamination. Ask your acupuncturist about their use.
SIDE EFFECTS FROM ACUPUNCTURE
There is NO significant side effect. Rarely, some patients may experience slight bruising at the sites of needle insertion.