Traditional Chinese Medicine - Dorothy Kay, L.Ac.
The practice of Traditional Chinese Medicine, also known as TCM,
dates back over 3,000 years. It is a time tested system of medicine
in Asia and is now rapidly being recognized in the
Fourteen major energy channels called meridians course throughout
the human body. Chi, a subtle energy, circulates thru the meridians
to all
parts of the body, even to the most remote cells. Chi must flow
readily and unobstructed to insure optimum health. When there is a
blockage of chi, there is pain, dysfunction and disease. Acupuncture
stimulates certain points along the meridians to help restore the
balance and flow of chi. This enables the body to repair itself and
maintain good health. Over the centuries, thru trial and error and
meticulous observation, the Chinese have accurately mapped the
specific meridians and identified hundreds of acupuncture points.
Conditions which affect the chi are excessive dampness, wind, cold, heat, even worry, anxiety and stress can change the flow thru the meridians. The actual treatment of acupuncture involves the insertion of very fine, sterile and disposable needles into specific points on the body along energy pathways (meridians) to balance the flow of energy (chi). Acupuncture needles are NOT like hypodermic needles and feel nothing like a shot or injection. Virtually painless, upon needle insertion, there may be a sensation or slight tingling in different areas of the body. This means the chi has been activated, and is a positive sign of chi movement thru the meridians.
While the effect of acupuncture is symptom relief, it is far more
than this. Acupuncture works with the body, strengthening and
balancing energy. It
improves
circulation and allows the body to heal itself more quickly and more
completely. Those who receive acupuncture often not only heal
physically but experience new and profound states of peace, clarity
and harmony through treatment which often has a lasting impact. Most
people are surprised at the depth of relaxation, the intensity and the sense of well being and healing which results
from the rebalancing of energy. You will find you look forward to
treatment for the many benefits that are received from acupuncture.
Traditional Chinese Medicine treats the root cause as well as the
symptoms of disease so that no matter how complex the conditions,
the patient is supported and moves to a healthier state of
wellbeing.
Does acupuncture hurt?
Acupuncture is very different from receiving an injection, since the main source of pain from an injection is the larger diameter, hollow needle and a liquid medication being forced into the tissue by pressure. Acupuncture needles, however, are almost as thin as a human hair, are solid and quite flexible. Usually the insertion of acupuncture needles is painless if performed by a skilled practitioner. Some patients report a sense of heaviness or tingling at or around the area where an acupuncture needle is inserted, but most patients find that the session is quite relaxing and often fall asleep during the treatment.
What can I expect at my first visit?
Usually a session runs between a half hour to an hour, although the first visit is often longer. Dorothy will discuss your concerns with you, make a diagnosis and discuss treatment. After options have been explored, acupuncture is performed. At the end of the session, Chinese herbal therapies may be prescribed for the patient to use at home. Typically, the majority of the time during a session is spent on the actual performance of acupuncture and related therapies such as cupping or moxibustion.
What is Moxibustion?
A
moxa stick is a tightly rolled stick of the herb, Mugwort also known
as "Ai Ye" in Chinese. It is burned and held near the acupuncture
points. Moxibustion is very safe and effective and feels very
pleasant. This ancient healing method can be helpful in treating
conditions of internal cold, chronic pain and in many other
circumstances.
What is Ear Acupuncture?
Ear
acupuncture is another vehicle of treatment in Traditional Chinese
Medicine. This method is especially effective in treating all types
of addictions (smoking, alcoholism, weight loss, drugs etc.) and for
pain anywhere in the body. The patient can continue the positive
effects of the treatment by having the practitioner place tiny
herbal seeds on the same points that were needled and press them
from time to time between acupuncture treatments.
What is Cupping?
This technique is said by the ancients to suck out the “evil chi”. A
vacuum is created within the cup by a fire source and placed on the
body (usually the back). Round glass cups created especially for
this purpose are used. This technique can sometimes leave marks on
the body as the capillaries near the surface of the skin are
affected. These marks generally disappear within 2 or 3 days. This
procedure is useful for moving the chi and blood in the body, and is
used in many conditions where the chi and blood are stagnant (pain)
or if the body is under exterior attack (viral cold).
What training do acupuncturists receive?
Acupuncturists receive 3-4 years of at least 2,200 hours for Oriental Medicine which includes acupuncture and Chinese herbology, or 1,700 hours for acupuncture only programs. Acupuncturists will study biology, organic biochemistry, physics, psychology, anatomy and physiology, and other medical subjects, in addition to oriental medical theory and diagnosis. State laws vary regarding the length of study and types of programs required before being eligible for a state exam. In Arizona, passing the NCCAOM examination is required for licensure.