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What
is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture
is a major therapeutic modality of Traditional Chinese
Medicine. This ancient technique of inserting needles into
specific points along a meridian to influence healing is safe and
effective. The goal of acupuncture is to balance the body's
flow of vital energy, or Qi so that areas lacking energy (yang) or
substance (yin) are nourished and areas of accumulation and blockage
are cleared. In Chinese theory, health is when Qi is in ample
supply and circulates freely through meridians and organs.
Acupuncture points are chosen based on assessment and analysis of the
person’s physical, mental and emotional
characteristics. While treating a specific ailment other
positive changes are often reported. Acupuncture needles are
very fine and flexible, about the diameter of a human hair.
They are sterile, stainless steel and disposed of after one
use. The patient usually reports an initial pricking or
tingling followed by a sensation of of heaviness, numbness or warmth in
the area of insertion. Many patients describe a
deep feeling of calm. Needles are removed after 20
to 40 minutes.
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