One of the favorite treatment options in our chiropractic office is acupuncture. Unfortunately, it is often the treatment method patients know the least about. We would like to unveil the mystery of a proven remedy for many of your current ailments as well as a key to maintaining good health.
What Is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is a procedure that involves stimulating points on the body by penetrating the skin with needles. It is among the oldest healing practices in the world.
Is Acupuncture Effective?
Acupuncture can work WITH your chiropractic adjustments and Active Release Therapy® (ART®) treatments to help you achieve your performance goals, prevent disease, and reach optimum health and wellness. The most common ailments presented to a chiropractor performing acupuncture are pain-related conditions such as:
• Arthritis
• Back, neck, knee, and shoulder pain
• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Sciatica
Acupuncture is also used to treat:
• Eye, ear, nose, and throat disorders
• Circulatory disorders
• Gastrointestinal disorders
• Women’s health disorders
• Addiction
• Emotional disorders
• Musculoskeletal conditions
• Neurological conditions
Acupuncture Is Gentle
Acupuncture uses fine, hair-like needles that slide between tissues. Acupuncture needles are 25-50 times thinner than a hypodermic needle. The needles are sterilized, disposable, and stainless steel. There is little sensitivity to the insertion of acupuncture needles. While some people feel nothing at all, others experience a brief “pinching” feeling as the needle penetrates the skin. This can be followed by a mild sensation of cramping, tingling, numbness, trav
eling warmth, or heaviness. Often a desired achy feeling is achieved, which represents the stimulation of the nervous system. The needles are left in place for 20-30 minutes. Most people find the experience extremely relaxing and uplifting. Some even fall asleep during the treatment.
Acupuncture Is Natural
Acupuncture’s all-natural approach to health starts with a holistic assessment of the body’s systems to determine the best practice for treating the area of chief complaint. This approach looks to the heart of the dysfunction. Treatment often consists of exercise and nutrition in conjunction with acupuncture. When acupuncture is combined with other natural healthcare systems, a synergistic effect can occur that will catapult an individual’s health in a more positive direction.
Acupuncture Is Proven
Clinical studies have shown that acupuncture is beneficial in a myriad of health conditions. Acupuncture is now a mainstream form of healthcare used in Western medical settings as an adjunct, and sometimes preferred, method of treatment.
How Does Acupuncture Work?
Eastern explanation:
The life energy flowing through the body, termed Qi (pronounced chee), can be influenced and balanced by stimulating specific points on the body. These points are located along channels of energy known as meridians that connect all of our major organs. According to Chinese medical theory, illness arises when the cyclical flow of Qi in the meridians becomes unbalanced or blocked.
Western explanation:
Acupuncture points are areas of designated electrical sensitivity. Inserting needles at these points stimulates various sensory receptors that, in turn, stimulate nerves that transmit impulses to the hypothalamic-pituitary system at the base of the brain. The hypothalamus-pituitary glands are responsible for releasing neurotransmitters and endorphins, the body’s natural pain-killing hormones. It is estimated that endorphins are 200 times more potent that morphine. Endorphins also play a big role in the functioning of the hormonal system. The substances released as a result of acupuncture not only relax the whole body; they regulate serotonin in the brain and stimulate the immune system.
How Quickly Does Acupuncture Work?
A positive response to acupuncture is generally seen between the first and fourth treatment. Chronic and complicated conditions will take longer. If you are being treated for a menstrual problem or infertility, it may take three menstrual cycles for your body to respond. An acupuncture schedule to maintain optimal performance can be discussed with Dr. Rich. Feel free to ask questions about your specific case.
Free “Introduction to Acupuncture” Seminar
April 30th, 6:00pm
Call our Roanoke, Virginia office to register:
1-540-344-1055
Attend our next seminar to understand more clearly how this ancient healing art may assist you in achieving optimal health. We will further discuss what acupuncture can be used for and even demonstrate acupuncture on participants. Due to the hands-on nature of this class, there are limited spots available.
All supplements and pillows are 10% off this week at CORE! Stop in, and stock up!
Dr. Daryl Rich, DC, CSCS
