What to expect. An Oriental Medicine (TCM) practitioner evaluates each patient individually. Through a process of asking about lifestyle and symptoms, observation of the patient, and touching the acupuncture points, patterns are identified which allow the practitioner to determine a course of treatment.
Interview. In your assessment, your practitioner will diagnose your condition with a thorough examination which will include a complete medical history, pulse, and tongue diagnosis. It will be tailored specifically to the way your body responds under the circumstances of your health concern.
Acupuncture. Acupuncture is the insertion of thin, solid, sterile, disposable, stainless steel needles into standardized acupuncture points. The point is smooth and insertion through the skin is not painful like injections or blood sampling. The practitioner carefully sterilizes any tools used and uses only disposable needles. Insertion of needles serves to unblock or conduct the bio-energetic current so that the flow of energy and resources in the body comes into balance for the good of the whole. The patient may very well be able to feel these sensations as tingling or warmth, for instance. The number of treatments varies depending on the issue and the response of the patient. Some will need only a few treatments, while others with chronic conditions may need more. Acupuncture treatments can be given at the same time that other techniques are being used, such as conventional Western medicine, chiropractic adjustments, and homeopathic or naturopathic prescriptions.
Herbs. Chinese herbal formulas are as effective now as they were 2,000 years ago. Formulas consist of from one to over 20 herbs. Side effects are fewer than those experienced with pharmaceuticals. The nature of the formula can be modified to your specific conditions, much like Acupuncture. All herbs used in our clinic are manufactured with strict adherence to manufacturing and purity standards.
Massage. Tui Na massage (related to Acupressure, acupuncture without needles), is a medical system that has been used to diagnose, treat, and prevent illness for over 23 centuries. It can treat acute or chronic conditions, relieve pain, speed healing, and strengthen the immune system.
Lifestyle guidance. The Chinese knew all along what we are finally learning, exercise, diet, nutrition, stress levels, interpersonal support and love, and a variety of factors all influence our health and quality of life. Your practitioner may make recommendations based on TCM and personal experience that will allow you to heal and become whole.
