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Q: What is Traditional Chinese Medicine?
A: Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is a comprehensive healthcare system that effectively preserves health and treats and prevents illness. This medical system has been used successfully throughout Asia for thousands of years and includes the use of acupuncture, Chinese herbs, massage, nutrition and exercise. In TCM theory, the smooth flow of vital energy called Qi (pronounced “chee”) is responsible for overall health. An imbalance or a blockage of the energy flow causes pain and diseases. TCM aims to alleviate or eliminate symptoms and treat the underlying causes of disease and restore balance to the body and mind. | Q: What is Acupuncture?
A: Acupuncture is the insertion of sterile, disposable, hair-thin needles through the skin at specific points to alleviate pain and treat diseases. It also helps to prevent illness by improving the overall health and functioning of the organ systems.
Acupuncture has been widely used throughout history and has been shown to be a safe and effective therapy. | Q: How does Acupuncture work?
A: Acupuncture works by improving the flow of Qi and restoring the energy balance in the body. It also enhances the body's natural healing ability to maintain health and protect against disease. Although acupuncture is not yet fully understood by Western science, recent research has demonstrated that there are electrical and biochemical responses when a needle is inserted at specific acupuncture points. These responses include the stimulation of brain activity and the release of chemicals such as neurotransmitters, pain-relieving molecules, or hormones that are important for the body’s self-regulating systems. | Q: What are Chinese Herbs?
A: Chinese herbs are mostly plants and minerals used to treat symptoms and to enhance the body’s natural healing processes. Herbs are usually used in combinations or formulas according to each individual patient’s needs. They may be dispensed as raw herbs or patent medicine in the form of pills, powder, or capsules for easier digestion. Chinese herbs have been shown to be safe and effective when administered correctly. | Q: What should I expect in a visit?
A: The first visit usually lasts for 1 to 1 1/2 hour. There will be an in depth assessment of your health condition and you will receive an acupuncture treatment customized to your personal needs. Subsequent treatments usually take place at a frequency of 1-3 times per week and last for about 45-60 minutes each. Since acupuncture aims to balance and move your energy, please be sure to have a light snack or meal 1-2 hours before the visit and refrain from heavy exertion immediately before and after the treatment. It is also preferable that you wear comfortable and loose clothing that can be rolled up to your elbow and/or knees. | Q: How many treatments do I need?
A: The number of treatments depends upon the duration, severity and nature of your health condition. 2-3 treatments may be sufficient for an acute condition such as common cold, ankle sprain, while a series of 5-10 or more treatments may be needed to address chronic conditions such as insomnia, chronic pain or smoking addiction. In fact, a typical course of acupuncture treatments in China usually involves daily or alternate day visits for 1-2 weeks. Upon evaluation of the patient's response, additional courses of acupuncture treatments may be prescribed. |
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