Acupuncture is a component of the health care system of China that can be traced back at least 2,500 years. The general theory of acupuncture is based on the premise that there are patterns of energy flow (Qi) through the body that are essential for health. Disruptions of this flow are believed to be responsible for disease.
Acupuncture is a family of procedures involving stimulation of anatomical locations on or in the skin by a variety of techniques. It involves the insertion of very thin needles through the patient’s skin at specific points on the body – the needles are inserted to various depths.
Electro – Acupuncture: This is the using of very small electrical impulses through the Acupuncture needles. This method is generally used for analgesia (pain relief or prevention)
Auricular Acupuncture: With auricular acupuncture, the ears are seen as a microcosm of the body and treatment is administered via fine needles, ear seeds, and ear tacks on various points on the ears. Ear seeds and tacks may be left in the ears after treatment to apply continuous stimulation with absolutely no feeling of them.
Cupping is a technique used to influence the flow of Qi and blood throughout the body. The suction on the surface of the skin from the cup stimulates blood flow in the area, relieves congestion and inflammation in muscles, and opens up pathways to eliminate toxins.
Cupping is indicated in treating a myriad of conditions from the common cold and flu, to upper respiratory issues, digestive problems, muscular pain/spasms, arthritic pain, and headache. Contraindications – fever, skin diseases or tendency to bleed.
Moxabustion (moxa) – is a form of heat therapy that has been used for centuries. The practice involves burning mug wart, a spongy herb to warm specific acupuncture points. The heat combined with the herb stimulates circulation, warms meridians, and promotes the Qi smooth flow.
This therapy can be used alone or in conjunction with acupuncture and can be effective in treating digestive disorders, insomnia, anxiety, pain management, respiratory conditions, and skin conditions, as well as, immune system support, prevention of disease, and women’s health including menstrual cramps, irregular periods, hypofertility, and breech babies.
This is simply Acupuncture without needles. Stimulation of the Acupuncture points is performed with the fingers or an instrument with a hard ball shaped head. Another variation of Acupressure is Reflexology (also called Zone Therapy). This is where the soles of the feet and the posterio-inferior regions of the ankle joints are stimulated. Many diseases of the internal organs can be treated in this manner.
Acupressure technique utilizes pressure of the hand, fingers, elbow or other tools used to apply pressure to specific acupuncture points on the body. The pressing of these key areas on the body promotes better blood circulation and helps to relieve tension. Benefits from acupressure are many and range from relief of headaches to treating constipation.