ACUPUNCTURE

Acupuncture is a form of natural health care originating from Traditional Chinese Medicine and has been in use for over 5,000 years. It is the placement of hair-thin sterile and disposable needles into specific points along the body's energy pathways. The energy pathways are called meridians, and each of the 14 meridians are connected to specific organs and glands. Acupuncture works by activating the body's natural ability to heal itself. Acupuncture is based upon the belief that living beings have a vital energy called Qi, pronounced “chee.” Qi circulates in the meridians. Acupuncture unblocks the meridians so "Qi" or life energy can flow freely to create balance and to heal the body. Acupuncture corrects the root cause of disease, as well as, the symptoms. It creates specific physiological changes in the body, such as, increased blood flow and oxygen, stimulates tissue repair, has anti-inflammatory effects and releases endorphins and other hormones for natural pain relief and feelings of well-being, without side effects. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) states that an imbalance in the flow of Qi through the meridians is the cause of pain and disease. Acupuncture encourages natural healing by helping to free the flow of Qi through the meridians creating balance and optimal health.  

Acupuncture Accreditation standards for practitioners are very high. Earning a degree in Oriental Medicine requires a minimum of 2,800 hours or 5 academic years of rigorous training as mandated by the Accreditation Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (ACAOM) and the National Certification Commission of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM). After completing didactic and clinical coursework, 4 national board examinations must be passed and malpractice insurance obtained before a license will be issued. Chapter 457 of the Florida law describes acupuncture physicians as primary care practitioners. Acupuncture physicians are regulated under the same federal laws and rules stated in the healthcare privacy act (HIPAA).  

Did You Know? 

• Acupuncture is safe to be used with other conventional forms of medicine for integrated health care, combining Ancient Wisdom with Modern Technology.  

• Acupuncture is recognized by the National Institute of Health (NIH) and the World Health Organization to be an effective form of treatment for several medical conditions. 

For news related articles & scientific studies on Acupuncture: 

http://nccam.nih.gov/health/acupuncture

www.acupuncturetoday.com

Acupuncture & Oriental Medicine also includes other healing therapies

Tui Na, which literally means "Push" "Grasp", is a type of Oriental massage that stimulates the circulation of Qi and blood, relaxes the muscles, and relieves pain and stress.

Cupping is used to stimulate the circulation of Qi and blood in the superficial layers of the muscle by creating a suction using a glass or plastic cup. The cup can be moved around or left in place. It helps to relieve pain in muscles and is used for the common cold. Cupping will leave a red mark that will dissipate.  

Moxabustion, also called "Moxa", is the use of an herb called Mugwart which is heated and held at a distance from the body over the affected area. The heat and the properties of the herb penetrate into the body to relieve pain and bring more Qi and blood to the area for healing. 

Electro-Acupuncture is the use of a few sterile needles attached to a micro or milliampere device that delivers gentle electric pulses during an acupuncture treatment. It increases the analgesic effect and helps to repair tissues and nerve fibers. Electro-Acupuncture is painless with only a slight sensation felt at the site. 

This form of acupuncture treatment places needles at specific points on the outer ear to stimulate the central and parasympathetic nervous system. It is used primarily for treating drug, alcohol, smoking and food addictions. Auricular acupuncture can also be utilized as a primary treatment (NADA protocol).