What is Acupuncture?
The origins of acupuncture can be traced back over 2000 years ago, making it one of the oldest and longest standing health care systems in the world. Acupuncture takes a holistic approach to understanding normal function, disease processes and focuses as much on the prevention of illness as the treatment.
When we are healthy, an abundant supply of Qi (pronounced "chee") or "life energy" flows through the body's meridians (a network of channels through the body). If the flow of Qi in the meridians becomes blocked or there is an inadequate supply of qi, then the body fails to maintain harmony, balance and order, where disease or illness follows. Acupuncturists aim to free up these blocks through the use of fine, sterile needles into specific sites (acupuncture points) along the body's meridians to clear energy blockages and encourage the normal flow of Qi through the individual. The practitioner may also stimulate the acupuncture points using other methods---including moxibustion and cupping---in order to re-establish the flow of Qi.
These blocks of flow can result from stress, overwork, poor diet, disease pathogens, weather, environmental conditions, and other lifestyle factors. Acupuncturists look carefully for these signs of health and dysfunction, paying particular attention to the presenting signs and symptoms, as well as to the medical history, general constitution, pulse and the tongue of patients.
The acupuncture that is performed is based on tradition, thousands of years old and still effective today.
The experience is one of relaxation and healing.
Oriental Medicine
Oriental medicine, which includes the practice of acupuncture, Chinese herbology and Asian bodywork therapy, is a comprehensive health care system encompassing a variety of traditional health care therapies that have been used for more than 3,000 years to diagnose and treat illness, prevent disease and improve well-being.
Chinese Herbal Medicine
Chinese herbal medicine takes a natural approach to understanding normal function and disease processes through the use of herbs and herbal combinations. Most diseases or illnesses emerge with a core set of recognizable signs and symptoms, but the actual expression of a particular disease or illness will vary from person to person. For this reason, people with similar health conditions may be provided quite different Chinese herbal medicine recommendations. A qualified practitioner is able to recommend a Chinese herbal formula that specifically matches and treats your individual health problem. As your condition changes and improves with treatment, the Chinese herbal treatment is also adjusted and modified until the desired health outcome is achieved.
What Kind of Conditions Can Acupuncture Treat?
An acupuncturist may be consulted for specific symptoms and conditions such as pain, anxiety, arthritis, asthma, migraine, menstrual disorders, intestinal disorders, addiction and a plethora of other conditions. The World Health Organization (WHO) has listed the above conditions and many more as being responsive to acupuncture treatment. For a full list of what Acupuncture can address, click here.
There has been extensive practice and research that proves that acupuncture is effective in helping patients with many of the common conditions facing our modern world. Acupuncture does more than simply relieve the symptoms; it aims to treat the whole patient and restore balance between the physical, emotional and spiritual aspects of the individual. Many people choose acupuncture as a preventative treatment, which is the most effective use of this medicine.
How Many Treatments Will I Need?
Each wellness plan is determined on a case-by-case basis, the length and intensity of your treatment is in accordance to the results of your initial exam, consultation and individual health goals. Commonly, a series of treatments are necessary to resolve a condition. Treatments can be between 20-40 minutes in length with the first consultation usually lasting longer. It is best to consult with our Licensed Acupnucturist for more details about your specific treatment plan.
Does Acupuncture Treatment Hurt?
Most patients have stated that there is no pain, but instead an awareness to increased circulation at the acupuncture points where a very fine, sterile, disposable needle is used to stimulate the flow of Qi. Treatments are available without the use of needles through a variety of Acupuncture modalities such as cupping. To explore your Acupunture treamtent options, set up you exam and consultation today!
Can You Tell Me More About Chinese Herbal Treatment?
Chinese herbal medicine, also known as Chinese herbology is one of the primary modalities within the scope of Oriental medicine. Chinese herbology includes treatment with substances such as plants, roots, minerals and more. Like acupuncture, Chinese herbology has evolved as an integral part of Chinese medicine and is used to re-harmonize imbalances in the body.
The World Health Organization (WHO) defines herbal medicines to include herbs, herbal materials, herbal preparations and finished herbal products that contain as active ingredients parts of plants, or other plant materials, or combinations. Chinese formulas are comprised of herbs designed for each individual patient. This special formulation is crucial because they must be delicately composed in order to achieve balance in each disharmony found. Even small deviations in dosage or herb composition can change the entire focus of the formula and therefore, the results.
Can Children Be Treated Through Acupuncture?
Children of all ages are treated and respond well to acupuncture and Chinese herbal treatment. In addition, young children who are apprehensive of the use of acupuncture needles may be treated without needles through a variety of treatment options. Since herbal formulas are so specific to individuals, the dosage and formula are customized for the child with their age in mind. Herbal formulas can be prescribed to enhance the acupuncture treatments and to provide further care between treatments as well.
Will Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine Treatment be Covered through My Insurance?
Some insurance companies cover acupuncture treatment, full terms of coverage are dependent on individual policies, networks and are subject to deductibles. In addition, a majority of flexible account spending plans will cover acupuncture and Oriental medicine treatment. It is recommended to call your insurance carrier to verify coverage and discuss options or take advantage of Lake Tahoe Wellness Center's complimentary Insurance Verification Service where we check the exact terms of your coverage as it pertains to our services and location. If insurance does not cover acupuncture, full price sessions can be used to go towards your insurance plan's deductible or you can take advantage of the big savings the Center offers with our Acupuncture Wellness Packages.