Q: WHAT IS ACUPUNCTURE?

A: Acupuncture is the insertion of fine needles into specific points of the body. Points are chosen to treat specific health problems. The Chinese have mapped these points over a period of two thousand years. Recently electromagnetic research has confirmed their locations. According to traditional Chinese medical theory, the basic energy force of life that flows through all living things is called Qi, pronounced “chee”.

Qi flows through channels, also called meridians, throughout the body. The acupuncturist observes manifestations of disease and then locates points on the body that govern a particular reaction of the blocked channel. The acupuncturist stimulates those points to allow the Qi to flow freely again. In this way, acupuncture regulates and restores a harmonious energetic balance of the body.

Q: HOW DOES ACUPUNCTURE WORK?

A: According to traditional oriental medicine, needles placed along acupuncture meridians (pathways), stimulate the body’s healing Qi (energy). From a Western perspective, the needles trigger the nervous system, releasing painkilling and inflammation-reducing substances. When an acupuncture needle is inserted into your body, it stimulates a sensory nerve. The sensory nerve triggers electrical impulses to the spinal cord, which signals: nerve cells to release endorphins (chemicals that mute pain); midbrain to discharge neurotransmitters (substances that block pain pathways); and pituitary gland to deliver endorphins and anti-inflammatory chemicals into the surrounding brain tissue and bloodstreams.

Q: DOES ACUPUNCTURE HAVE ANY SIDE EFFECTS?

A: One of the significant advantages of acupuncture is the absence of side effects as long as it has been properly applied. This is in contrast to many Western medicines in which severe side effects in certain cases may be worse than the disease being treated.

Q: HOW DOES ACUPUNCTURE FEEL?

A: Acupuncture needles are very fine, about the size of a thin hair, and most acupuncture points are virtually painless. There are a few areas such as the feet and hands that are more sensitive. I will usually let you know if a point is sensitive.

You may feel different sensations such as cramping, heaviness, dissention, tingling or electric-like sensation, either around the needle or traveling up or down the affected meridians. In any case, if you experience any discomfort, it is usually mild, and I can either adjust or remove the needle.

Once all the needles are inserted, most patients experience a feeling of deep relaxation. In fact, many fall asleep during the treatment (which usually lasts 20 to 30 minutes) and awake refreshed––as if they have been sleeping for hours.

Q: WHAT TYPE OF NEEDLE IS USED?

A: Only sterilized, individually packaged, disposable needles are used. Needles are not saved or reused for later treatment. This practice eliminates the possibility of transmitting a communicable disease.

Q: DO YOU WORK WITH PAIN OR INJURIES, EVEN WHEN NOTHING ELSE HAS WORKED?

A: Yes, I have treated many patients for various conditions who came to me as a last resort and achieved amazing results. When it comes to treating pain, I have many natural and effective tools to choose from, and often combine one or more of these modalities: acupuncture, electro-acupuncture, cupping, injection therapy, auricular therapy, herbs, homeopathy, and liniments and patches. I devise the best combination to treat your pain efficiently and effectively.

Today, more and more people are incorporating oriental medicine into their primary care plan as opposed to waiting for months and years before “trying” it.

Q: HOW DO HERBAL MEDICINES WORK?

A. Plants are nature’s original pharmacy. Unlike western medications, which often function by suppressing symptoms, Chinese herbal medicines stimulate the body’s natural healing response to restore normal, balanced physiological function. Herbal prescriptions are tailored to your specific condition.

Q: DO YOU TAKE INSURANCE?

A: Yes, most major insurers cover the services upon approval. We call your insurance company, verify coverage and process the claims. Call me at 954-390-0411 and I will verify your coverage.

Q: HOW SOON CAN I SEE YOU?

I work by appointment. Call me at 954-390-0411 to schedule your appointment.