How can acupuncture aid in cancer or fertility treatments? Dr. Zhang has written two short articles to answer questions on these two topics. We welcome you to read them below!
What is Traditional Chinese Medicine?
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is an ancient medical system that takes into account a deep understanding of the laws and patterns of nature and applies them to the human body. TCM is a complete medical system that has been practiced for thousands of years.
At the heart of TCM is the belief that the root cause of illnesses, not just their symptoms, must be treated. In modern-day terms, TCM is holistic in its approach — it views every aspect of a person’s body, mind, spirit and emotions as part of one complete circle rather than loosely connected pieces to be treated individually.
Some major treatment modalities of TCM are acupuncture, qigong, herbal therapy, acupressure and taichi.
What is acupuncture?
Acupuncture is one of the oldest, most commonly used medical procedures in the world. Originating in China more than 2,000 years ago, acupuncture has helped heal various afflictions and illnesses for centuries.
The term acupuncture describes a host of procedures involving stimulation of precise, anatomical points on the body by a variety of techniques. The most scientifically researched acupuncture technique involves penetrating the skin with thin, solid, metallic needles that are manipulated by the hands or by electrical stimulation.
What can acupuncture treat?
The World Health Organization (WHO) and the National Institutes of Health (NIH) declare acupuncture an effective treatment for over 40 conditions including: addictions, arthritis, back pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, nausea, depression/anxiety, digestive problems (ulcers, nausea, gastritis, irritable bowel syndrome), ear problems (ringing, earaches), fibromyalgia, headaches, infertility insomnia, muscle & joint pain (tendonitis, bursitis, sprains), sinus problems, skin disorders, stroke rehabilitation and urinary problems.
Dr. Zhang has done extensive research in pain management and infertility.
What does acupuncture feel like? Is it safe?
Every person experiences acupuncture differently, but most feel no pain or a slight pinch when needles are inserted. For a point of reference, acupuncture needles are much finer than needles used for shots at a physician’s office.
Dr. Zhang uses top-quality sterile disposable needles in all of his acupuncture procedures. Surveys have shown that acupuncture is very safe when practiced by well-trained practitioners.
How does acupuncture work?
In TCM, illness is believed to be due to a blockage in the flow of qi (vital energy) along pathways known as meridians in the body. There are 12 main meridians and 8 secondary meridians and more than 2,000 acupuncture points on the human body that connect with them.
Although acupuncture is not fully explained within the framework of Western medicine, scientific research has proposed that acupuncture produce its effects through regulating multiple network systems, including nervous, endocrine and hormonal, immune and circulatory systems that result in the process of self-healing.
What happens when I go for treatment?
You will be asked about your current symptoms, what treatment you have received, your medical history, your diet, digestive system, sleeping patterns and emotional state. The acupuncture points used are not always close to the part of the body where you experience the problem. For example although you might suffer from headaches, needles may be inserted in your foot and hand.
How many sessions will I need?
Frequency and length of treatment depends on your individual condition. Some change is usually felt after five treatments, although occasionally only one or two treatments are required. Some patients may need treatment over several months or long-term. Dr Zhang will normally ask to see you once a week at first.
Will my insurance cover acupuncture treatments?
You should always contact your insurance provider before making an appointment to make sure that you are covered for acupuncture treatments.
Other questions, comments, concerns?
Please feel free to contact us!