What is Medical Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is one of the oldest forms of medical treatment. It has been used in treating a wide range of illnesses and conditions over the past 4000 years. The Chinese, Korean, Japanese, and French have all influenced its development. However, “Medical Acupuncture” is a fusion of all these influences, with respect to Western knowledge and modern medicine practice.
How does acupuncture work?
Acupuncture is a method of encouraging the body’s life energy Chi. While allowing it to naturally heal itself. First, a fine needle is inserted into precise points throughout the body. Then, heat or electrical stimulation is applied. Recent Western medical research and trials continue to confirm and support the use of acupuncture for various conditions.
Who performs these treatments?
At Spine Orthopedic Center, a board-certified physician-acupuncturist performs treatments. The path to becoming a specialist starts with traditional Western medical education. Plus subsequent training in the medical specialties. In addition, the physician-acupuncturist completes a rigorous and comprehensive training. This program is specific in Medical Acupuncture and then becomes certified.
What conditions or illnesses can be treated with acupuncture?
Medical Acupuncture is being continually supported by modern Western medical research. It is a system that can influence the promotion of health and well-being. While also aiding in the treatment of various medical conditions, such as:
- Low back pain
- Neck pain
- Arthritis
- Bursitis
- Sciatica
- Neuralgias
- Headaches
- Frozen shoulder
- Tennis elbow
- Tendonitis
- Fibromyalgia
- Myofascial pain syndromes
Do the needles hurt?
Some have reported a slight pinch. While others barely feel anything at all. As the needle is advanced, a dull ache or tingling should be felt. This is an indication of DeChi, or “capturing the energy”. Once the needles are in place, pain is typically not felt. However, if electrical stimulation is applied, a light buzzing or thumping sensation has been described as pleasant.
Is acupuncture safe?
Medical acupuncture is one of the safest treatments in medicine. Our needles are single-use, sterilized and disposable. Bruising is possible, but this will in a short period of time.
When will the treatments begin to work?
For some, the treatment effects are experienced immediately. But for others, therapeutic effects take several sessions. It is recommended to initially have at least 4 sessions within 2 weeks. In order to gauge the potential for further benefits with continued treatments. Once a positive response is seen, most require a “reinforcement” treatment, every month or so.