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Acupuncture is a form of natural medicine that has its roots in ancient China, approximately 4,000 years ago. It is based on empirical findings discovered as a result of many years of experience. The theory of acupuncture includes the principle of Chi which some translate to mean “energy”. This energy is the life force that flows through our bodies, maintaining our life, balance and homeostasis. Chi flows through channels or pathways throughout the body called meridians and collaterals. There are places along the channels that allow the Chi to be manipulated by pressure or very thin needles to correct the flow of energy that may be in excess, deficient, stagnated or moving in the wrong direction. By using acupuncture needles, an acupuncturist create a change in the flow of energy, bringing the body into balance and increasing the body's healing and immune responses.
Chinese medicine is vast and uses many tools and techniques to bring the body back into balance and clearing it of disease. Observing, listening, questioning, touching, and smelling are ways the acupuncturist gets information, taking note of all the signs and symptoms of the patient in order to get a clear picture of how the case is presenting. Tongue and pulse diagnosis is used to get information of how body organs are functioning. By observing the tongue and pulse, one can determine if the body is cold or hot, if the energy is in excess or deficient. One can also observe if there is an accumulation of dampness or wetness in the body. All of this information is used to determine the state of the patient's health. Herbs are also an important part of the Chinese medical treatment. |
