More on Acupuncture
The science behind the
efficacy of acupuncture has not yet been discovered, although many studies are being done including
several done at the University of California Irvine with MRIs.
Fourteen main meridians exist, one associated with one or more major organs and a midline frontal
and dorsal meridian. Energy or Qi flows through these meridians as well as the herbs. Disease is a
manifestation of weakness or blockage in these meridians. Acupuncture, herbs, massage, nutrition,
and Qi Gong help the meridians regain their balance and health by nourishing and regulating the
energy flowing within.
Acupuncture needles are very thin and insertion should be painless. After locating the proper
acupoints (specific area of stimulation), there might be a mild discomfort that is brief in
duration. During the treatment the patient usually will not notice the needles. Acupuncture needles
are left in for 30 to 45 minutes. Longer is not necessarily better. Needles left in for too long can
drain all the energy away from the body.
There are
different styles of acupuncture today. Styles range from the traditional ones of the different Asian
countries as well a newer styles invented recently. At the Acupuncture and Natural Health Center,
the acupuncture methods used include Traditional Chinese medicine style, Dr. Tan Balance method,
Master Tung method, Orthopedic Medical acupuncture, neuropuncture style, electro-acupuncture and
Auricular or ear acupuncture.