Acupuncture is one of the earliest forms of healing, dating back 5,000 years in China. It was used there for many years as a complete system of medicine, addressing all aspects of acute and chronic internal medicine, trauma, and preventative care. Founded on the principle of energy, or Qi (pronounced “chee”), and the observation of its flow, cycles and rhythms through a network of channels in the body, it involves placing very thin, sterile, disposable needles into specific points located on these pathways to directly influence your Qi.
The practitioner decides which points to use after assessing the health of your Qi and the progression and depth of the illness during the initial consultation and exam, and during the first few minutes of subsequent visits. All of your signs, symptoms, history, and your physical exam provide information leading the practitioner to your Chinese diagnosis and treatment plan.
The physical exam includes taking your pulse, palpation of the channels and specific trigger points, movement evaluation, looking at your tongue and your overall demeanor and color.The initial consultation and exam will last about two hours and may or may not include a treatment. Subsequent treatments last about one hour, and may include acupuncture, moxibustion, acupressure, cupping, Gua-Sha, exercises, and lifestyle counseling. Your pulse may be taken several times during treatment to assess your response.
Acupuncture is well known for its ability to treat many kinds of pain, whether acute or chronic in nature. However, Acupuncture can also help the body overcome many other conditions. At Lancaster Acupuncture the conditions most commonly addressed are allergies, acute colds and flu, asthma and bronchitis, digestive complaints, women’s health concerns, fatigue, depression, fibromyalgia, insomnia, arthritis, back and shoulder pain, UTI’s, IBS, and ulcerative colitis, among others.
Treatments are typically required weekly for 6-8 weeks and then reduced in frequency. This varies between individuals and depends on the length and severity of symptoms. Many people find it valuable to continue periodic maintenance treatments once they are well.
Acupuncture works well along with traditional western medical care. Your practitioner will be happy to communicate with your medical team to coordinate care if needed.
Are you ready to begin your healing journey? Contact Beverly today to find out how acupuncture could help you!
Beverly Fornoff, M.Ac., Licensed Acupuncturist
(717)381-7334