Acupuncture
Acupuncture is an ancient practice that aims to bring the body and being back into a state of balance. This balance is what we commonly know as wellness in the West. Through the acupuncture meridian system - the energy infrastructure that is studied and understood by this medicine - we can treat an array of conditions by returning the body to homeostasis and igniting the body’s innate healing ability. The miracle of this medicine is in its ability to utilize the body’s own power to heal.
Acupuncture involves needling specific points to stimulate an energetic response to rebalance a meridian and/or an organ system. Chinese herbal remedies utilize plant and herbal medicine to bring these same systems back into balance. Acupuncture and herbal medicine are each their own branch of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). In addition to acupuncture and herbal medicine, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) utilizes cupping, auricular therapy (ear beads and needling), gua sha, Tuina, topical herbal therapy, dietary therapy, and more.
At Inner Garden, other healing modalities that compliment the understanding and practice of TCM are woven into practice.
As you prepare for your treatment, consider the following.
Before your treatment
Treatments are most effective when your hunger is satisfied and you are well hydrated.
This is a time for yourself. Come to your appointments with the intention of relaxation.
Dress comfortably. Loose clothing is optimal.
Some insurance companies cover acupuncture. Upon request, paperwork can be provided for you to submit to your insurance company for reimbursement.
Acupuncture can treat a wide array of conditions (including chronic pain, menstrual irregularities, depression, rheumatoid arthritis, allergies, inflammatory conditions and many more). The World Health Organization recognizes nearly 100 conditions that are effectively treated with acupuncture.
Ten treatment sessions is considered one course of treatment. Some conditions find relief with fewer treatments and some require more than one treatment course. Once your condition has resolved, we will determine an appropriate maintenance plan to sustain your wellbeing.
During your treatment
Most commonly, people ask if acupuncture hurts. We are seeking a whole myriad of sensations that do not include pain. With acupuncture, we seek to achieve a "de qi" sensation. This can include a sensation of heaviness, itching, tingling, warming, pinching, pressing, discomfort, and more.
You may be offered a meditative exercise during your treatment. This exercise is specifically constructed to enhance your treatment.
Heating lamps will be placed over your body to keep you warm while you rest during your treatment.
A typical acupuncture treatment is 25 minutes once all needles are placed. I will check on you during your session to ensure you are comfortable and relaxed.
Please plan to be at the office for 60 minutes for a follow up appointment and 90 minutes for an initial appointment.
Additional treatment modalities, such as cupping, will add additional time too your treatment session.
Needles are placed near or at areas of discomfort and are also placed away from the affected area, in line with traditional acupuncture theory.
After your treatment
Be sure to drink plenty of water and feed yourself within an hour of your treatment.
Acupuncture can have a strong relaxation effect so plan to give yourself a little extra time traveling home or to your next engagement after your appointment.
It is normal to experience a multitude of sensations several days following your treatment. You may notice physical changes, emotional shifts, and an adjustment in your mental activity.
Be kind to yourself. Healing is a journey. You will ebb and flow with your treatments. You are exactly where you need to be.