What is Traditional Chinese Medicine? (TCM)
Traditional Chinese Medicine is a comprehensive medical system that can have a beneficial effect on almost any disorder. The National Institutes of Health and the World Health Organization have officially recognized the benefits of Chinese Medicine, declaring Acupuncture and Chinese Herbal Medicine effective in treating over forty conditions.
What Chinese Medicine Treats
- Musculo-Skeletal Disorders: arthritis, low back pain, sciatica, tennis elbow, TMJ, carpal tunnel syndrome, frozen shoulder, fibromyalgia, tendonitis
- Psycho-Emotional Disorders: stress, anxiety, depression, nervousness, insomnia, smoking and other addictions
- Gynecological Disorders: PMS, menstrual irregularities, menopausal syndrome, ovarian cysts, infertility
- Gastro-Intestinal Disorders:indigestion, constipation, diarrhea, nausea, acid reflux, ulcers, colitis, and irritable bowel syndrome
- Respiratory Disorders: allergies, asthma, common cold, flu, and sinusitis
- Neurological Disorders: headache, migraine, dizziness, Bell’s palsy, post-stoke paralysis, neuralgia
- Circulatory Disorders: high cholesterol, hypertension
- Uro-Genital Disorders: urinary tract infection, incontinence, impotence
Acupuncture can increase energy levels, strengthen the immune system, and promote deep relaxation and a sense of well-being.
Education of Acupuncturist
Today, acupuncturists undertake four years of extensive and comprehensive graduate training at nationally certified schools. Earning a 4 year Masters degree in Chinese Medicine, they are also required to study Herbology, Western Medicine and Nutrition and must pass a national and/ or a state exam and meet strict guidelines to practice in every state. To maintain a license each acupuncturist must enroll in 25 hours per year of continuing education courses that are approved by the state and national boards.
What Does An Acupuncturist Do?
During the initial exam a full health history is taken. Questions are asked regarding health, symptoms, dietary choices, sleep patterns, emotional status and lifestyle just to name a few. An appropriate physical exam is conducted, including pulse and tongue diagnosis.
Gathering this information enables the practitioner to effectively diagnose and detect any specific imbalances that may have contributed to a person’s health problems. The practitioner can then create a well-structured treatment plan. Depending on the complexity of the ailment will determine the frequency and length of treatment plan. Typically acute conditions can often be treated in a shorter time period and chronic conditions will take more frequent and longer time periods of healing. Its not uncommon for people to see and feel changes at their first visit. Acupuncture stimulates nerves, increases blood circulation, relieves muscle spasms, reduces inflammation, and stimulates the immune system so the body can heal itself. Application of thin disposable needles gently inserted on the body creates a state of ultimate relaxation resulting in renewed energy. In a quiet nurturing setting with personalized therapy, the treatment brings balance and promotes physical as well as emotional healing.
