Acupuncture
What is acupuncture?
Acupuncture is one of the oldest and most commonly used medical procedures in the world. Typically, acupuncturists insert hair-like needles at specific points on the body to activate and balance the vital energy or “life force” — also called Qi (pronounced “chee”). When Qi flows properly, the body’s processes and functions are said to be in harmony.
How does acupuncture work?
In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), the body is considered to be a network of 12 interconnected channels or meridians — each classified as yin or yang — that transmit Qi throughout the body. When the flow of Qi is obstructed or moving irregularly, the functions of muscles, organs, and tissue can be impaired. Acupuncturist insert needles at points on the meridians to correct imbalances in the flow of Qi. When the flow is unblocked, the body can repair and regulate itself. There has been much research proving the effectiveness of acupuncture in helping with chronic back pain, migraine, tension headaches, and fertility.
What do people use acupuncture for?
People use acupuncture to help with conditions such as:
Is there scientific evidence that it works?
Acupuncture has been practiced for more than 5,000 years. Over the past several decades, Western researchers have tested its effectiveness, and the World Health Organization concluded that acupuncture is indeed a safe and effective treatment for a variety of health conditions. Scientist in China, Russia, Germany, and Japan are currently investigating the effectiveness of acupuncture using scientific instruments to measure phenomena such as Qi, yin and yang, and acupuncture points. Some research suggests that acupuncture points are electromagnetic places of least resistance in the body. In addition, recent studies using functional MRI scans have demonstrated its effectiveness.
The World Health Organization and National Institutes of Health have endorsed acupuncture for a variety of conditions. Moreover, the 11th revision of the International Classification of Diseases (ICD 11) tracks patients’ encounters with traditional medicine and provides insurance codes that practitioners can use for TCM diagnosis and treatment.
Testimonial for Acupuncture
“When I first started treatment with Dr. Julie I could barely close my hands. I have severe carpal tunnel syndrome in both wrists. But within a short time of treatment (about three weeks), I was able to make a fist and actually grip things. It took only about six weeks before I was able to regain very reasonable use of both of my hands — my MD said that only surgery could accomplish this.
She also treated me for other things and I found that she went above and beyond to help me with any complaint I had. She was eager to try new treatments to find what worked best for me and even did research on her own time to make sure she was giving me the best available care possible.
I’m deeply grateful to Dr. Julie for all she has done and hope that anyone suffering from pain will give her the opportunity to help. She is a great heart and giving soul who will do everything possible to help.”
—S.R.
San Jose, California
The Acupuncturist’s Oath
Oath of Sun Simiao – year 581-082
I promise to follow the way of the great physician. I will strive to live in harmony with nature and teach my patients to do the same. • I will stay calm, and completely committed when treating disease. • I will not give way to personal wishes and desires, but above all else hold and nurture a deep feeling of compassion. • I will be devoted to the task of saving th sacred spark of life, in every creature that still carries it. • I will strive to maintain a clear mind, and am willing to hold myself to the highest of standards. It will be my duty to diagnose sufferings and treat disease. • I will not be boastful about my skills, nor driven by greed for material things. • Above all, I will keep an open heart. I will receive great happiness as a reward, without asking for anything in return.
Source: http://mtnspiritacupuncture.com/blog/98/The-Oath-of-Sun-Si-Miao