There are specific points along the meridians called acupuncture points. At these points an energy flow is stimulated and the function of the organs are regulated.

Stimulating these points restores the delicate balance and introduces the healing process.

When energy flow is smooth and in balance one is in health. If the energy balance is disturbed, one will feel ill or pain.

Scientific Evidence : :

1. Endorphins are morphine like substances produced in the brain. Endorphins provide a pain killing effect along with a sense of well-being. According to biochemical and neurological research, acupuncture works by activating this natural pain-suppressing system in the brain. In other words, acupuncture may work by releasing the endogenous endorphins.
2. Studies demonstrate that acupuncture has an apparent effect of stimulating and strengthening the body's immune system. Acupuncture mobilizes the natural defense inside the human body, thereby, producing anti-inflammatory and anti-infectious results.
3. Acupuncture is also used to regulate the body's system as a whole. For example, acupuncture can reduce or raise the levels of hormones in women. By doing this naturally, the body will produce only what it needs without potential side effects.

What is Moxibustion ? : :

The therapeutic effects of moxibustion are produced by a slow-burning moxa-stick held near an acupuncture point or injured area. This naturally burning heat helps to increase circulation and enhances the healing process.

Does Acupuncture Have Side effects ? : :

One of the greatest advantages of acupuncture is its "safety.” In the hands of a competent acupuncturist, acupuncture has shown to be free from discomfort or side effects. Some patients may report feeling sore, light headed and even a heightened feeling of well-being after treatments. However, the majority of people report a sense of pleasant relaxation.

Resting for a few moments after receiving a treatment is recommended to stabilize the body. It is also best not to eat a heavy meal or engage in strenuous activity of any kind immediately before or after a treatment.

Is Acupuncture Painful ? : :

Acupuncture needles are very fine and flexible and can barely be felt when inserted. These needles are used to attract or disperse energy along the acupuncture points--nothing is injected into the body. Occasionally there may be some sensations felt from the treatment. This is caused by the mobilizing energy that has been stagnating, not by the needles themselves. Disposable needs should always be used.

How Many Treatments Are Needed ? : :

The primary focus of Traditional Chinese Medicine is on correcting the underlining cause of an illness or disease; hence, producing a lasting effect. Symptoms can often be relieved in matter of hours or days, but healing the illness itself may take a little longer.

Since every person is different, the treatment plans are individualized. Things considered are the type of illness, the severity of the condition, the duration of the sickness, and the physical state of the patient at the time of the treatment.

A course of treatment is usually between six and ten sessions. To get the best therapeutic results, acute cases should be treated daily for a few days, then in prolonged intervals. Chronic cases usually need two to three visits per week. In cases where there is a slow response, the patient should not get discouraged, but should try to complete the entire course. Most of these cases may require more effort to restore the energy balance.

For a health maintenance program or for prevention, a periodic treatment of once a week or once every two weeks is recommended. This program usually helps the internal organs to function in a balanced condition while improving the function of the whole body.

Conditions that can Benefit from Acupuncture : :

Most patients who have been treated by acupuncture notice a considerable improvement in their overall health. This is because Chinese medicine uses a very sensitive and complete system of diagnosis. This system is effective in the detection of minor disturbance as well as serious illnesses.

Here are some of the most common conditions treated with acupuncture:

allergies/asthma, anxiety/depression, arthritis/joint problems, back pain, bladder/kidney problems, childhood illnesses, constipation/diarrhea, colds/influenza, cough/bronchitis, dizziness, drug/alcohol/smoking addiction, ffects of chemotherapy, fatigue, gastrointestinal disorders, gynecological disorders, headache/migraines, heart problems, high blood pressure, immune system deficiencies, knee problems, menopause, neck pain, premenstrual syndrome, paralysis/numbness, rhinitis, sciatica, sexual dysfunction, sinusitis, skin problems, stress/tension, tendonitis.