What is Traditional Chinese Medicine?
Traditional Chinese Medicine is a complete medical model utilizing five main components: Acupuncture, Chinese Herbal Medicine, Nutrition, Qi Gong (Meditative Exercise) and Tuina (Medical Massage). In the United States, the first exposure that most people have to Chinese Medicine comes through seeking Acupuncture. The licensing in the Commonwealth of Virginia accepts the National Board Certification through NCCAOM as the requisite for state licensure. A Licensed Acupuncturist (L.Ac.) is governed by the Virginia Board of Medicine. A prospective patient should research practitioners to ensure that they have proper education and credentials.
How does Acupuncture Work?
Acupuncture uses the natural laws and energetics of physics within a system or network of pathways called meridians. The body's energetic life force - referred to as Qi (pronounced CHEE) - flows through these meridians. The application of fine filaments, or needles, helps to address blockages or weaknesses in these pathways. This restores a balanced rhythm and flow that may have been interrupted or disrupted - which we experience as a manifestation of pain or illness. With the stimulation of appropriate points along these meridian pathways, energy is then allowed to flow in its original, natural manner. Western scientific studies are starting to confirm what has been known through empirical observation for over 5,000 years in Chinese Medicine. They indicate that in addition to pain management, acupuncture profoundly influences the central and peripheral nervous systems, releases endorphins from the brain, affects blood sugar and cholesterol levels, and improves the gastrointestinal and endocrine systems -and has many many more long term benefits. Acupuncture shines in its ability to enhance well-being and tends towards a focus on wellness and prevention of chronic illness as opposed to treating only symptoms and acute conditions.
How can Chinese Herbal Medicine help me?
The Chinese Herbal Medicinal system is based on hundreds of centuries of empirical observation and clinical use. The Chinese Herbal Pharmacopeia contains thousands of herbs that have been time tested by practitioners and carefully recorded as to their effects, singularly and collectively, on the human body.
In practice, a Chinese Herbologist combines herbs in that formulas to treat pattern disorders as diagnosed within the Chinese medical framework. Some herbs may parallel western herbs, but the applications may differ. It is crucial to receive Chinese herbal formulas only from a practitioner specifically trained in this curriculum.
Chinese herbs are of plant, mineral and animal substances. At our Clinic, we primarily use fresh raw herb concentrations - either as powdered tea mixtures and tinctured drops - or patented pill forms. We only use the highest quality vendors to ensure safety and efficacy.
What Other Methods Are Used in Treatment?
Other methods can be used to supplement, enhance, or to improve the effectiveness of an acupuncture session. Moxibustion - commonly called Moxa - is a technique that uses the warming of points or meridians with the herb Artemesia vulgaris, or Mugwort. This herb can be placed on the needle and lit, or can be used indirectly over the acupoints. This stimulates blood and Qi flow at the local area, which in turn invigorates the meridians. Cupping is a form of therapy that uses the application of jars or cups at specific points or areas along the meridians. It is often used for muscular tension or to release toxic buildup in the underlying tissues. Tuina - chinese medical massage - is often incorporated with the session to increase circulation and/or to elicit relaxation.
What can I expect from a session at Blue Ridge Acupuncture?
The practitioner first spends some time discussing your current conditions - encompassing physical, mental and emotional signs and symptoms - to gain clarity as to the best possible focus for the treatment. Herbal recommendations will be explained and offered when appropriate. Diagnosis is then refined with pulse reading and tongue diagnosis.
Most patients report feeling relaxed during treatment. Patients can expect varied results, based on their individual conditions and lifestyle factors affecting rate of improvement.
How can I learn more about Chinese Medicine, Acupuncture and Chinese Herbs?
More research and general information can be found at www.acufinder.com and www.acupuncture.com - as well as many other sites.
