Treatments

Acupuncture is one of several therapies used in Chinese Medicine. Acupuncture uses hair-thin, sterile, disposable needles inserted at specific points on the body to subtly influence how the body is functioning. Western science is slowly developing an understanding for the mechanism behind acupuncture, but has noted its effects on many of the body’s systems including the neurological, endocrine, respiratory and digestive systems.

The Chinese medical model is based on empirical science dating back more than 5000 years ago, archives have been passed down from generation to generation between families, scholars and practitioners. In countries like China and Korea Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is the first line of healthcare offered to patients in hospitals. The fundamentals of TCM are based on an energetic system (referred to as Qi, pronounced “chee.”) Together with blood, qi that flows in a circuit around the body along channels, or meridians- Modern technology has since confirmed the location of these points through electromagnetic research. Each channel corresponds with an internal organ system. When this circuit is running smoothly, the body is in balance and there is health. However, if there is a disturbance in the circuit, the resulting imbalance may cause a variety of symptoms including physical pain, emotional unrest, digestive upset, insomnia, or any number of ailments. TCM focuses on treatment for the underlying issues of your health condition as well as providing some relief from the symptoms. With the insertion of acupuncture needles, the proper flow along the circuit is re-established, allowing the channels and their corresponding internal organs to return to a balanced state, and the body to normal physiological functioning. This can mean freedom from pain, mental fatigue and an increase in vitality to help you live your life more fully and creatively.

Acupuncture needles are very skinny , not much thicker than a hair. There is very little, if any, discomfort during their insertion. Once inserted, people report a variety of sensations including: heaviness at the point of insertion, tingling, warmth, dull aching and/or a drawing sensation. Overall, people feel a deep sense of relaxation, and many even fall asleep during the treatment.

This will vary depending on the nature of the problem and how long it has been present. Typically, if it is a new problem, improvement and/ or resolution may only take a few treatments. If the problem has been around for months or years, a longer course of treatment may be required. In this case it is rare that resolution would be reached in a single treatment. A typical course of treatment usually lasts somewhere between 4 to 6 sessions. Your practitioner will be able to discuss reasonable expectations for your particular condition after an evaluation .

Yes, when practiced by a Licensed Acupuncturist, acupuncture is extremely safe. The needles used are pre-packaged, sterile and disposable, eliminating any chance of infection. Practitioners undergo 4 years of rigorous graduate level training and must pass National University Board Licensing exams. To find an AHPRA, ACCMA certified practitioner in your area, go to www.acupuncture.org.au

A treatment will start with a health history and rather extensive questioning about all aspects of the patient’s condition. This is followed by an exam in which the practitioner feels the pulses, examines the tongue and palpates the channels. This gives the practitioner a lot of information about the internal state of the body. The appropriate treatment will then be decided upon for that day. If appropriate, you will receive dietary, herbal and lifestyle recommendations to enhance the effects of your treatments.

Before receiving treatment, you should have something light to eat. Best to not come under the influence of any alcohol, caffeine or recreational drugs.

Moxibustion is the use of the herb Chinese mugwort, called moxa, on the skin to warm specific acupuncture points or areas like the abdomen. Moxa comes in a fine ground texture that is made into small cones and used either on the end of a needle or placed on the skin. The top is then lit and burns down a little way, creating a pleasant penetrating warmth. Used to warm the yang of the body. Call the clinic for more detailed information on how moxa may assist women during pregnancy.

Cupping is a therapy used to treat muscle pain or the early stages of colds and flu. Glass cups with suction are placed on the skin, usually on the back, and moved around for a short period of time to remove lactic acid from tight muscle groups.