Acupuncture

Acupuncture is a system of healing that focuses on improving the overall well being of the patient. Health problems are treated by the insertion of fine needles into the body at specific points. Originating in China, these points have been mapped out over two thousand years and have more recently been confirmed through electromagnetic research.

Traditional acupuncture is based on ancient Chinese theories of the flow of Qi (energy), also referred to as Chi and Xue (blood) through distinct pathways or meridians that cover the body. Acupuncture, that is inserting special needles into acupoints, stimulates and enhances the free flow of Qi, therefore regulating the harmonious energetic balance of the body. This consequently relieves pain and restores health.

Conditions Treated with Acupuncture

The list of conditions commonly treated with acupuncture is extensive and includes:

• Allergies / Asthma
• Arthritis / Joint Problems
• Back Pain
• Bladder / Kidney Problems
• Constipation / Diarrhoea
• Cough / Bronchitis
• Dizziness
• Drug Addiction / Smoking
• Fatigue
• Gynaecological Disorders
• Headache / Migraine
• Health Maintenance
• Heart Problems / Palpitations
• High Blood Pressure
• Immune System Deficiency
• Knee Pain / Neck Pain / Stiffness
• Pain Relief
• Paralysis / Numbness
• Pre-Menstrual Syndrome
• Sciatica
• Sexual Dysfunction
• Shoulder Pain
• Skin Problems
• Sports Injuries
• Sprains and Strains
• Stress / Anxiety
• Tendonitis
• Weight Control
• Chronic Fatique Syndrome

Acupuncture Treatments

The location of the points selected, the nature of the problem, the patient's size and age and the acupuncturist's style are all factors that will determine how deep the needles actually go. Acupuncture needles are usually inserted from 1/8 to 1 inch in depth. The patient will feel some cramping, heaviness, distention, tingling, or electric sensation either around the needle or travelling along the energy pathway. However the pain level is considered mild. During the treatment the patient will need to uncover the area on which they will be worked and will usually lay on a massage table. The number of treatments required for healing varies depending on the duration, severity and nature of the complaint.