Acupuncture is a complete medical system that has been practiced for thousands of years in China and other Asian countries. It is used as a means of treating and preventing diseases through the application of needles to the body. It is sound and safe medicine. It is general medicine that is effective in healing a wide range of problems and diseases without side effects. Any conditions you would go to an M.D. for, you may go to an acupuncturist for. It is especially effective for acute or chronic pain, reducing or eliminating the need for pain medication. Acupuncture itself is a very simple procedure administered by inserting very fine needles into the acupoints along the different meridians (pathways of energy). This energy is called Qi (pronounced "chee" in Chinese and called "ki" (pronounced "key") in Japanese. The insertion of these needles stimulates your body's energy (Qi, Ki) and unblocks any obstructions of Qi, strengthens your body, helps you to heal from acute or chronic problems and balances both body and mind. To achieve the best possible results, the method of treatment used and the selection of acupoints must be based on proper diagnosis and treatment principles, according to sound principles of traditional Chinese medicine. The practice of acupuncture began at the very early stages of human history, and, like all the other components of traditional Chinese medicine, its techniques have undergone more than 5,000 years of refinement. Besides extensive and detailed diagnostic and treatment prescriptions of acupoints, the instruments have also been refined. Now, disposable sterile needles are commonly used. Just as the structure of the needles has been refined, so have the methods of application. At Acupuncture Plus, a wide range of acupuncture therapy is practiced, including ear needling, scalp acupuncture, hand acupuncture, entire body acupuncture, moxibustion, cupping, manual and electro acupuncture. Depending on your diagnosis, the acupuncturist will utilize the most effective method he/she thinks will benefit your individual condition and constitution the most.

What is Qi and how does it travel?

Qi is the energy that animates your body. It is the universal life-force. It provides you with the ability to talk, walk, think, metabolize, dream, love, everything. Qi also protects you from illness, keeping you strong and healthy. Qi circulates through specific pathways called Meridians. There are 14 main meridian pathways traveling throughout your body. Each one is connected to an organ system. Meridian pathways are like rivers. When a river flows, it transports life-giving waters, nourishing the land and people around it. Like rivers, your meridian pathways transport life-giving Qi to energize and nourish your entire body, cells, tissues, and organs. When Qi travels freely throughout your body, you can enjoy good physical, mental, and emotional health. An obstruction of Qi in your body acts like a dam, backing up qi flow in one area of your body and restricting it in other areas. Restricting the flow of Qi will affect the proper nourishment your body requires in order to function correctly. What makes blocked Qi? In general, people's lifestyle; diet, exercise or lack thereof, overwork, stress, under work, thinking too much, etc. When our daily lifestyle is unbalanced, our system will be, too. Most people have some imbalanced due to the ups and downs of everyday living.

What can I expect?

During your initial exam a full health history will be taken, with questions regarding your health, lifestyle, and any other information necessary for diagnosis. Your acupuncturist will check your pulses, look at your tongue, and conduct the appropriate physical exam. This information is organized according to the theories and philosophies of Chinese medicine in order to diagnose your specific concerns and any underlying factors that may affect your health. After the interview process, you will receive an acupuncture treatment. This visit ranges from 60-90 minutes. During treatment, you may feel energized or a deep sense of relaxation and well-being. Where the acupuncture needles have been inserted, you may feel a vague numbness, heaviness, tingling, or dull ache. Sometimes people will experience the sensations of energy spreading from the needle. This is called "getting the Qi." All these reactions are a good sign that the treatment is working!

Why does the acupuncturist look at my tongue?

The tongue is a map of your body, reflecting the general health of your organ and meridian systems. Your acupuncturist will look at the color, the shape and the coating of your tongue. Tongue diagnosis is very reliable because your body does not lie. Do not scrape or brush your tongue. If you do, the practitioner will not be able to set the state of your health. A healthy person does not need to scrape or clean their tongue for cosmetic purposes.

Why does the acupuncturist feel my pulses?

There are 12 main positions on your wrist that your acupuncturist will feel. Each position corresponds to an organ and meridian system. Your acupuncturist will be looking for 27 pulse qualities that reflect the balance of Qi, the condition of your internal organs, and your general state of health. If there are any imbalances, they will appear in your pulse.

How should I prepare?

Come to the clinic with any questions you have. Wear loose and comfortable clothing. Do not come overly hungry, or overly full (don't skip any meals).

Is acupuncture safe?

Extremely safe. It is a "drug-free" therapy yielding no side effects, except feelings of relaxation and being grounded.

Why does my acupuncturist recommend Chinese herbs?

Herbs can be a powerful adjunct to acupuncture care. They can strengthen your body or clear it of excess problems like cold, fever, or acute pain. Herbs can be used daily and they are something you can do for yourself. Sometimes your practitioner may suggest starting with herbs and then adding acupuncture to your treatment. This is to build up your internal strength so your body can receive the full benefits acupuncture has to offer. Sometimes the acupuncturist will recommend only acupuncture. Usually he/she will recommend both.

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