Acupuncture

What is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture, an essential part of traditional Chinese medicine, is a three thousand year old comprehensive system of health care. Chinese medicine includes acupuncture as well as Chinese herbology, bodywork, dietary therapy and exercise based on Chinese medicine principles. These therapies work with the natural vital energy inherent in all living things to promote the ability to heal.

How does it work?

Chinese medicine is based on energy rather than biochemistry as is the case western medicine. The ancient Chinese recognized a vital energy inherent in all life forms. They call this energy Qi (pronounced chee). Chinese healers discovered that this energy flows in pathways, or meridians and used this knowledge to develop a way to prevent and cure disease. They learned that each meridian, or pathway, is associated with a particular physiological system and organ and recognized illness as an imbalance of energy in the meridians and their associated physiological systems.

Acupuncture points are specific locations along these meridians or pathways. Each point has an effect on the vital energy running through it. Today, modern science has been able to measure the electrical charge at these points, confirming the pathways mapped out by the ancient Chinese.

Traditional Chinese medicine uses an intricate system of pulse and tongue diagnosis, palpation of points and meridians, medical history and other signs and symptoms to create a pattern differentiation. From this, a treatment plan is developed to re-establish balance and optimal health for each person.

What can I expect?

Many conditions may be alleviated very rapidly by acupuncture and Chinese medicine. However, some conditions that have are long-standing will be calmed by slow and steady improvement. As in any form of healing, attitude, diet and lifestyle affect the outcome of a course of treatment. Clients are encouraged to actively participate in the healing process and are given many recommendations. Although Chinese medicine can treat most conditions, there are circumstances that can be dealt with more effectively by Western medicine. In such cases, your acupuncturist will recommend you contact a Western medical doctor. Chinese medicine is usually a supportive compliment to Western medicine.

Is Acupuncture painful?

Acupuncture needles are very fine and flexible, about the diameter of a human hair. In most cases, insertion by a skilled practitioner is performed without discomfort. You may experience a sense of heaviness or electricity in the area of insertion. Most patients find accupuncture relaxing and many fall asleep during treatment. In some cases other treatment modes: manual Tui-Na therapy, cupping, moxibustion or aromatherapy are performed before and/or after inserting acupuncture needles. This is most often enjoyable and soothing for the patient, and enhances the effects of the acupuncture.

Is Acupuncture safe?

In the hands of a comprehensively trained acupuncturist your safety is assured. Acupuncture needles are sterile and immediately disposed of after each treatment.

Ciel Walko, L.Ac., CTN is NC state licensed and nationally certified, and follows all health and safety requirements.