Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine At Avena
For thousands of years people of all backgrounds, ages, and with varying health conditions have been relying on the efficacy of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) to help them achieve vitality, harmony, and balance. But what is Chinese medicine, and how can we at Avena Natural Health help you? We have answers for you.
What is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medical practice that involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body. This technique aims to foster balance and harmony, facilitating the body’s innate ability to heal itself. Rooted in the principles of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), which perceives the body as a network of interconnected meridians or energy channels, acupuncture has evolved into a holistic medical system.
In a typical acupuncture session, a skilled practitioner strategically places fine, sterile needles into specific acupoints throughout the body. This precise placement acts as a signal to the body, initiating the natural healing process. Practitioners utilize this approach to diagnose and aid individuals in recovering their health, alleviating pain, and maintaining an optimal state of well-being.
What Kinds of Conditions Does Acupuncture Help Treat?
- Women’s Health: Fertility and Pregnancy, PCOS, Endometriosis, PMDD, Menopausal symptoms, Acne, Recurrent UTI’s + Yeast Infections
- Pain Management / Musculoskeletal Disorders: Upper + Lower Back pain, Neck pain, Knee pain, Plantar Fasciitis, Sciatica, Osteoarthritis, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Tendonitis, Whiplash, Tennis Elbow, Golfers Elbow
- Digestive Issues: IBS, Acid Reflux/GERD, Nausea, Constipation, Indigestion, Crohn’s
- Insomnia and Sleep Disorders
- Stress / Anxiety: Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Depression, High Blood Pressure, Anxiety Attacks
- Respiratory conditions: Allergies, Asthma, Sinusitis, COPD
- Neurological conditions: Headaches, Migraines, Trigeminal Neuralgia, Bell’s Palsy
If you’re curious if Acupuncture can help you with a condition not listed, schedule a free consult with us today!
Chinese Herbal Medicine
Herbal medicine extends your treatment into your home. You can think of herbal medicine as the internal medicine branch of Chinese Medicine. The beauty of Chinese herbs is that it focuses upon offering individualized formulas to meet your needs. Many of the herbs used are food and spices that are commonly known, yet others are less commonly known like roots, bark and minerals.
The health benefits of herbal medicine can include improved digestion, relief from headaches and vertigo, better sleep quality, improved mood, pain free periods and relief from PMS symptoms, fewer night sweats and hot flashes, more energy, relief from acid reflux, and much more.
About Dr. Ana Barforough
Dr. Ana Nicole is a devoted practitioner of traditional Chinese medicine in San Diego, focusing on an array of services including acupuncture, cupping, herbal medicine, and GuaSha. With extensive knowledge of TCM principles and methods, Dr. Barforough designs individualized treatment plans customized to her patients’ specific health requirements. By blending ancient wisdom with contemporary insights, she endeavors to rebalance the body and enhance overall well-being. Join Dr. Ana Nicole to commence your path toward optimal health and vitality. Book your appointment today for a life-changing journey.
How Does Acupuncture Work?
The modern scientific perspective shows that acupuncture works by stimulating the nervous system, leading to the release of neurotransmitters such as endorphins, which are natural painkillers. Acupuncture may also influence the autonomic nervous system, balancing the sympathetic (fight or flight) and parasympathetic (rest and digest) responses. This can help reduce stress and promote relaxation. Some studies indicate that acupuncture can modulate immune responses, potentially enhancing the body’s ability to fight infections and inflammation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine
Is Acupuncture safe?
Yes, acupuncture is generally considered safe when performed by trained and qualified practitioners. In the hands of a skilled professional, acupuncture involves the use of sterile needles and follows strict hygiene practices, minimizing the risk of infection or complications. Additionally, acupuncture is a non-invasive procedure, and adverse effects are typically minimal.
Does Acupuncture hurt?
The perception of pain during acupuncture can vary from person to person, however, in general, acupuncture is often considered to be a relatively painless procedure. The needles used are extremely thin, much finer than the needles used for injections or blood tests. People typically report sensations such as a slight tingling, a dull ache, or a feeling of heaviness at the insertion site.
Can acupuncture be used alongside western medicine?
Yes, acupuncture is often used alongside Western medicine as a complementary therapy. Many healthcare providers recognize the potential benefits of integrating acupuncture with conventional medical treatments to enhance overall patient care.
How many treatments will I need?
The number of acupuncture treatments needed can vary widely depending on the individual, the specific condition being treated, and how the body responds to acupuncture. Acupuncture is often used as part of a holistic treatment plan, and the frequency and duration of sessions can be influenced by factors such as the severity and duration of the condition, the overall health of the individual, and the goals of the treatment.
In some cases, people may experience significant improvement after just a few sessions, while others may require ongoing or regular treatments for a more chronic condition. Acupuncturists typically recommend an initial series of treatments close together, such as once or twice a week, to build up the effects. As progress is made, the frequency of sessions may be reduced.