WHAT MIGHT I EXPECT?
Five Element Acupuncture promotes a healing partnership between the client and the practitioner. The acupuncturist realizes that each person is unique and no two people experience the same symptom in the same way. The first session will be a diagnostic interview and last about two hours. During this visit, the acupuncturist will gather information about your medical and personal history and give you a treatment. Subsequent treatments will last about an hour.
Research has shown that acupuncture treatments have a cumulative effect and that each treatment builds on the previous treatment. To maintain this progress, the first few treatments are scheduled weekly. Gradually the treatments are spread apart. While each individual varies, it is reasonable to expect changes to be noticed within six treatments.
DOES ACUPUNCTURE HURT?
The tiny disposable needles used for acupuncture bear no resemblance to painful hypodermic needles used for injections or to draw blood. They are solid, and nothing is injected into the body. Insertion of acupuncture needles is virtually painless. Some people experience a brief sensation of pinching, stinging or tingling which quickly dissipates. The needles are inserted just beneath the skin – some are removed immediately and at times they are left in for several minutes. As for treatment to help with eye diseases – No, the needles do not go in the eyes- the majority of the points are in the hands and feet.
HOW WILL I KNOW IT IS WORKING?
Changes can be dramatic or subtle. The more severe and longer you have had a condition, the longer it may take to treat. Many people report decreased pain, that they get sick less often and recover more quickly, increased relaxation, improved sleep, enhanced mood with more harmonious relationships and positive changes in appetite in just a few visits. You can expect to feel stronger, healthier and more energetic.
ARE THE NEEDLES STERILE?
Absolutely. Only the highest quality disposable, single-use needles are used for your care. The needles come in pre-sterilized, sealed packages and are disposed of in a medical waste container after use.
WHAT ABOUT MY MEDICATION?
Acupuncture complements Allopathic medicine; it does not replace it. All clients are encouraged to continue taking the medications prescribed by their doctors and continue their routine medical care.
WHAT IS MOXABUSTION?
Moxabustion is the use of an herb called mugwart (artemisia vulgaris) in the stimulation of acupuncture points. The herb is burned on or over the point to heat the specific location. Most clients enjoy moxabustion as it relaxes and warms the body.
WHAT IS GUA SHA?
Gua Sha is a scraping method that uses various tools to stimulate blood flow in areas of the body that have become congested or stagnant. This therapy can leave temporary marks on the skin that usually fade within two to four days. While the marks might look like bruising, there is no soreness. People really like this gentle, relaxing and effective method.
WHY SHOULD I COME TO YOU?
Two distinct reasons: First, I am a good listener. Finding the hidden sources of our suffering comes from acute listening to what is being said or not being said. I have developed fine observation skills which is the foundation of Traditional Chinese Medicine for diagnosing and designing a treatment plan that will best serve each individual.
Secondly, I love what I do. I bring my passion to the healing session, which creates a positive influence that will facilitate your healing journey.
MEDICAL TREATMENT?
Acupuncture is NOT a substitute for Main Street medical care by a qualified physician – but it is complimentary.