Acupuncture
What is acupuncture, how does it work?
Acupuncture is the insertion of acupuncture needles into specific points throughout the body to stimulate the nervous system as well the circulatory system. This creates inflammatory responses in the body, thereby increasing the flow of blood, oxygen, and nutrients to specific areas of the body in order to promote the healing process. Acupuncture needles will also trigger the central nervous system to release natural opioids and endorphins to target an area of discomfort, and ultimately put an end to a chronic pain cycle.
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What are some common things it can it treat?
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Chinese Medicine Acupuncture is a complete medical system that can treat a wide range of health disorders or complaints:​
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Mental-Emotional: Anxiety, depression, grief, stress, insomnia
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Respiratory: acute bronchitis, asthma, sinusitus, common cold, rhinitis
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Digestion complaints: bloating, constipation, loose stools, ulcers
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Gynaecological: Menstrual issues, PMS, fertility, pregnancy care, morning sickness, postpartum care, perimenopausal care.
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Musculoskeletal and Pain (acute, chronic, myofascial):neck pain, back pain, knee pain, joint pain, arthritis, tendonitis,traumatic injuries, muscular tension, neuropathic pain (numbness, tingling, burning), sciatica, TMJ, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, Whip lash
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Neurological: Migraine, headache, trigeminal neuralgia, Bell’s palsy, post-stroke paralysis, peripheral neuropathy, dizziness, multiple sclerosis
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Respiratory: Common cold, allergies, asthma, shortness of breath
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Ears, Nose, Throat & Mouth: Toothaches, earaches, tinnitus, vertigo, Meniere’s disease, acute and chronic sinusitis, laryngitis, emphysema
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Other: fatigue, circulatory issues (including oedema and swelling), urinary issues
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What to expect:
Acupuncture needles are incredibly thin and should not be painful upon insertion. Patients may feel tingling, warmth, pressure, or a dull ache.
Acupuncture treatments lengths vary in time depending on the symptoms and patterns with which a patient presents. Needle retention usually lasts a minimum of 20 minutes and rarely more than 45 minutes.
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How many sessions are needed?
Some people prefer to come on a monthly or bi monthly basis as a preventative medicine. This is a great way to prevent illness and feel your best. In general, acute or new conditions require 4 - 6 treatments, over a 2 - 4 week period, whereas chronic or longterm conditions generally require 6 - 10 treatments over a longer period of time. As a holistic medicine, Acupuncture treatment plans all depend on the type of condition, the requirements of the individual and their desired outcome.
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