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Center for Integrated Eastern Medicine
Acupuncture &
Traditional Chinese Medicine
What is Acupuncture?
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Acupuncture is an effective form of medical treatment that has evolved into a complete holistic health care system. Practitioners of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and acupuncture have used this treatment method to help millions of people become well and stay well. TCM has been developed for over 3,000 years.Acupuncture promotes natural healing. It can enhance recuperative power and immunity, support physical and emotional health, and improve overall function and well-being. It is safe, painless and effective way to treat a wide variety of medical problems.
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What is Qi?
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At the core of this ancient medicine is the philosophy that Qi (chee), or Life Energy, flows throughout the body. Qi animates the body and protects it from illness, pain and disease. A persons health is influenced by the quality, quantity and balance of Qi.
How does Qi move?
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Qi moves through specific pathways called meridians. There are 14 main meridians inside the body. Each of these is connected to specific organs and glands.
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Meridian pathways are like rivers flowing inside the body. Where a river flows, it transports life-giving water that provides nourishment to the land, plants, animals and people. Similarly, where meridian pathways flow, they bring life-giving Qi that provides nourishment to every cell, organ, gland, tissue and muscle in the body.
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An obstruction to the flow of Qi is like a dam. When Qi becomes backed up in one part of the body, the flow becomes restricted to other parts. This blockage of the flow of Qi can be detrimental to a persons health, cutting off vital nourishment to the body, organs and glands.
What does an acupuncturist do?
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During the initial exam a full health history is taken. Questions are asked of the patient in order to get a perspective of the chief complaint, health history, diet, exercise, current treatments etc. The tongue is examined and the pulse taken to aid in the diagnosis. From there a treatment plan is discussed including follow-up treatments, expectations, and possible herbal supplements. The acupuncturist will select points to be used then insert needles based on the treatment plan. Additionally, auricular treatment, cupping, estim or other modalities will be used.
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Each patient is unique so the treatment plans will all be customized. Retention of the needles is different for each patient but usually ranges from 10 – 45 minutes.
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Please contact us if you have any questions!!