Acupuncture

Acupuncture

Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) have been around for thousands of years. The roots of TCM involve uncovering underlying imbalances and the signs and symptoms that are expressed by each individual. By looking at the multitude of systems that make up the human body and how they relate to one another we can start to recognise patterns that are leading to or causing disease. As humans we are extremely resilient and we want to be in a state of balance or homeostasis. Acupuncture as a medical system, is about creating balance between the dynamic fluctuations of Yin and Yang. This relates not only to our mind and body but also to our internal and external environments.

Acupuncturists will work with you to promote, maintain, restore, or improve health, to prevent a disorder, imbalance, or disease or to alleviate pain.

Acupuncture Treatment

Initial acupuncture appointments will include a thorough intake to discuss the reason(s) for your visit and your general health. During treatment your acupuncturist will remain in the room with you for the duration of the treatment.

• Acupuncture treatments include one or more of the following:
• Acupuncture – is an act of using thin, sterile needles to stimulate specific areas or points on the body.
• Electro-Acupuncture – is the use of electrical stimulation of the needles to enhance therapeutic effects especially when treating pain or musculoskeletal issues.
• Acupressure – is the activation of points on the body using manual pressure rather than with needles.
• Tui Na – is Chinese massage that uses kneading, pressing, pulling, grasping, rolling, shaking, and stretching of the body. It focuses on unblocking areas of stagnation by increasing movement of Qi (vital energy) and blood flow, relaxing muscles, and improving the function of tendons, bones, and joints.
• Cupping Therapy – involves suctioning the skin with either glass or silicone cups to improve blood flow, promote cell repair, reduce pain, inflammation, and muscle tension, boost immune function, and remove toxins.
• Moxibustion – is a type of heat therapy in which an herb is burned on or above the skin to warm and stimulate an acupuncture point or affected area. Alternatively, acupuncturists will use a TDP lamp. A TDP lamp is a specific electromagnetic lamp which is heated by infrared light and produces therapeutic rays to increase microcirculation. It is a clinical alternative and a substitution to moxibustion.
• Gua Sha – is a therapy that involves scraping the skin with a massage tool to improve circulation, reduce inflammation and pain, and promote healing.

Together you and your acupuncturist will discuss the best treatment options based on your personal health goals before starting. Lifestyle, therapeutic exercises, and dietary suggestions may also be discussed.