Information About Acupuncture, Herbs, and Chinese Medicine
What is acupuncture and Chinese Medicine?
Chinese Medicine is a comprehensive natural healthcare system that both prevents and treats illness. It originated over 3,000 years ago, giving it the honor of being one of the oldest and most commonly used medical techniques in the world. More specifically, acupuncture is the insertion of fine needles into the body at specific points shown to be effective in the treatment of specific health problems. These points have been mapped by the Chinese for thousands of years. Recently, electromagnetic research has confirmed their location.
How deep do the needles go?
That depends on the nature of the problem, the location of the points selected, the patient's size, age, and constitution, and upon the style of acupuncture being administered. Usually needles are inserted from 1/4 to 1/2 inch in depth.
Does it hurt?
As a whole, acupuncture does not hurt, in fact it is usually very relaxing. Sometimes, you may feel some tingling or heaviness around the needle or traveling up and down the affected meridian, but most of the time, there is no discomfort. In fact, some patients drift off to a light sleep during treatments.
Are the needles clean?
I use (as do most current acupuncturists) sterilized, disposable needles. They are used one time and then disposed of in a proper manner.
How does acupuncture work?
Traditional acupuncture is based on ancient Chinese theories of the flow of Qi (energy) and Blood through distinct meridians or pathways that cover the body. According to ancient theory, acupuncture allows Qi to flow to areas where it is deficient and away from areas where it is in excess. In this way, acupuncture regulates and restores the harmonious energetic balance of the body.
The goal is to treat the root cause of the illness, while also eliminating or reducing the symptoms so that there is an overall improvemtent in the quality of life.
In terms of Western Medicine, acupuncture cannot be fully explained. However, as it gains increased respect and recognition, more research is being done so as to offer explanations for its effectiveness. Right now we do know that acupuncture activates certain centers of the brain. We also know that acupuncture increases blood circulation to areas that are injured, thereby reducing inflammation and increasing the healing response. It also well known that acupuncture increases endorphins (natural painkillers), speeds healing, and releases hormones that fight stress.
How long is one treatment session?
Treatments usually last on average for one hour. The first time a person comes in, the session will be between an hour to an hour and a half. The extra time allows for me to do a thorough health history, as well as go over any herbal, dietary, or lifestyle recommendations that I may make.
How many treatments will I need?
That depends on the duration, severity, and nature of your complaint. For an acute condition, you may need only one or two treatments. A series of 4 to 6 treatments may be necessary for more complex or chronic conditions. Some degenerative conditions may require treatments over longer periods of time.
How soon will I notice a difference from an acupuncture treatment?
This is variable, and it is hard to judge how each individual will react. Some people will notice a difference right away, some will notice a difference the next day, some will notice a difference in two or three days. In rare cases, more than one treatment will be needed in order to notice a difference. If this is the case, don't give up, be patient, and try to see if you are doing anything that might possibly be aggravating the situation. I like to have people take it easy after the treatment so that the healing process can occur without aggravation or interruption.
What should I do before an acupuncture treatment?
Come to your appointment dressed in loose, comfortable clothing. It is best to have a little bit of food in the stomach, but don't be too full either. In order to get the full benefit of the treatment, don't come to your appointment under the influence of any alcohol or drugs.
What should I do after an acupuncture treatment?
It is best to take it easy after your treatment for the rest of that day. Most importantly, don't do anything that is going to aggravate the condition for which you are seeking treatment. Please don't drink alcohol, do drugs, overeat, or participate in any strenuous exercise. Allow your body to rest and focus on the healing that will occur.
What is the benefit of taking herbs?
In many situations, taking herbal medicine will increase the efficacy of the acupuncture treatments. I like to think of it as adding in strength training to your cardio workout. One without the other produces some changes, however, the two of them together bring about the best and most efficient results.
Herbs are an empowering way of continuing the healing process once you have left the acupuncture office. If you are interested in taking herbs, I will provide you with one or two formulas that are chosen specifically for you and your situation.
What conditions are alleviated by Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine?
Chinese medicine recognizes that any symptom or illness is a sign that the body is unbalanced. Because Chinese medicine works on the body as a whole and brings it back into balance, almost any symptom or illness can be helped through treatment. Some of the more common conditions that are treated through Chinese medicine are: headaches, migraines, back pain, joint pain, any other type of pain, women's health issues, pms, infertility, menopausal symptoms, stress, anxiety, insomnia, depression, digestive disorders, addictions, weight control, fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue, skin disorders, allergies, asthma, cough, cold, flu, and much, much more.
How does diet and nutrition play a role in Chinese Medicine?
Diet and nutrition play a large role in the realm of healing. A beneficial diet provides a strong foundation for healing to occur as it supports the body and the healing process. In many cases, I will make dietary and nutritional recommendations in order to bring about the most efficient results from the treatment session(s).
What if I have further questions?
Please feel free to contact me with any further questions. I am happy to answer any questions or concerns that you might have, and I love to discuss Chinese Medicine, health, and overall wellness.
Stacey Pribanic, L.Ac. - Licensed Acupuncturist & Herbalist
The Wellness Center
1787 Mesa Verde Ave. Suite 140
Ventura, CA 93003
805-644-0461
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