So Acupuncture Works....but How?

This is a great video of a health show from Australia.  It answers the basic questions that most have about acupuncture, such as "What is acupuncture?" or "How does it work?"

Not only does this video explain the Chinese Medical theory behind acupuncture but it also shows the recent research that has been conducted to scientifically figure out how and why acupuncture is so effective. Using fMRI (functional magnetic resonance imaging), Western science has shown that acupuncture reduces activation of pain sensors in the brain.  Other theories and research suggests that acupuncture triggers the  release of our "feel good" hormones called endorphins and calming neurotransmitters such as serotonin.  Acupuncture has also been shown to dilate blood vessels and increase circulation to areas of treatment; thus, relieving pain and promoting healing.  Even more research suggests that acupuncture somehow accesses the natural bio-electrical field of the body.  

No matter what Western science discovers, acupuncture simply just works.  In addition to the research that is out there, Chinese Medicine and acupuncture are backed up by thousands of years of theory and case studies.  This history shows that it is effective and can address a wide range of conditions.  So should you try acupuncture?  Why not?  Just try it and see what it can do for you. 

Oriental Medicine: a brief overview

Oriental Medicine is an ancient form of medicine that is highly effective in treating a wide range of disorders from pain to internal medicine to stress and anxiety. It has many facets and styles that have developed over it's 2000 year history. Acupuncture itself is just one component and treatment method of Oriental Medicine. In addition to acupuncture, practitioners can utilize herbal medicine, tui na massage, qi gong and tai chi, and dietary medicine. Together these components are considered the Five Branches of Oriental Medicine and used to help an individual achieve internal well-being.

Other treatment methods that can be used are moxibustion, gua sha, and cupping. Moxibustion involves the burning of the herb mugwort to provide warmth and promote healing. Gua sha and cupping involve the use of specialized tools and techniques to promote circulation. Oriental Medicine encompasses these treatment methods as well as the various styles that have evolved over thousands of years. Among these are Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Japanese Acupuncture, Korean Acupuncture, and Five Element.

In my practice, I particularly practice Japanese Acupuncture in addition to TCM. Japanese Acupuncture utilizes abdominal palpation as an additional diagnostic tool and often involves a treatment of the root cause of an individual's condition as well as addressing any outward symptoms. It is a gentler form of acupuncture: needles are lightly inserted or delicately held in contact with the skin without insertion. This form of acupuncture may appeal to those who are sensitive or may even be wary of needles. In my practice, I find that I have incorporated the gentle technique of Japanese Acupuncture into my TCM treatments. Because of this, I am able to provide patients with a unique acupuncture experience that is gentle yet effective.

Each form of acupuncture is special in its own way but they have a common ground. Japanese Acupuncture, as with all forms of acupuncture, all evolved and developed from the same theories that came from China: yin and yang, the five elements, Qi and blood, and the channels of the body. These are the foundations of Oriental Medicine. This foundation, the many treatment methods, and styles of acupuncture are what gives this medicine the amazing ability to address many conditions and achieve results. As a practitioner of this ancient medicine, I am honored and grateful to have this ability to provide individuals with a way to achieve inner health and well-being, to be pain-free, and to simply feel well.

Yours in health,

Lesley