Frequently Asked Questions
How does
Acupuncture Work?
According to
traditional Chinese medicine, a vital force called "Qi" (chee)
circulates throughout the body along specific pathways or channels.
There are 12 major channels, each of which specifically influences a
certain group of functions of the body. These channels are named for
the organs that are associated with these functions: Lung, Large
Intestine, Stomach, Spleen, Heart, Small Intestine, Urinary Bladder,
Kidney, Triple Burner, Pericardium, Gall Bladder, and Liver.
In order for
each system to be healthy, the flow of Qi through its associated
channel must neither by excessive or deficient. The Qi should flow
freely and not be impeded in any part of the body.
When one is ill,
the flow of Qi in the body is out of balance. When one is well, the
Qi flows through the 12 channels harmoniously.
By means of
acupuncture, we can adjust the flow of Qi in the channels, thereby
restoring the natural balance, flow, and rhythm of energy in the
body.
Is
Acupuncture Painful?
Acupuncture
needles are very thin and fine. They are flexible and are generally
not painful when inserted. The sensation of the needle insertion is
often compared to the bite of a mosquito. One person may be more
sensitive than another. However, the sensation is not at all similar
to getting an injection because injection needles are considerably
thicker.
Frequency and
Number of Treatments?
Many factors
must be taken into account in determining the number of treatments
which will be necessary. Although some conditions may be alleviated
quickly, most chronic ailments require a minimum of six treatments.
The initial
session will start with one or two treatments a week. As the patient
progresses, the frequency of treatment will be decreased to twice a
month, once a month, etc., until only a regular check-up during a
change of seasons is needed.
Most patients
will feel better after treatment, but some may feel worse. The
stimulation of the body's energy as a result of treatment may cause
new sensitivities in a body that has been dulled by chronic illness.
The patient may
temporarily feel worse, or re-experience symptoms that were present
years ago. This may by due to a reversal of the course of the
illness.
What Ailments
Can Be Treated?
Please see
this
page for problems and ailments that Dr. Amy Chen treats. If your
particular problem is not listed, please give us a call, as Dr. Chen
has treated patients for a wide variety of issues throughout her
career.
If you have any
other questions not addressed on our site, please email us or give
us a call.
Contact us at:
info@VaughnWu.com
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