What is an acupuncture point?
An acupuncture point is a place, space or point that can be accessed to regulate bodily functions to support the body and prevent diseases. Deep and extensive study of these points and their connecting channels or meridians is necessary to successfully strengthen health and prevent disease. There are twelve main meridians or channels comprising at least 361 points. Taking into consideration extra points, extra channels, and other (ashi) points, there are claimed to be over 600 points on the body. No wonder it requires extensive study to master. Think of an acupuncture point like the electric wall socket that allows one to access electricity. Once accessed we can turn on or off the lights. When we access an acupuncture point, we can give a message to create a change; to regulate energy balance.
Does acupuncture hurt?
Most people find acupuncture to be a very nice experience. The initial insertion has been describes as finger prick. It is true that some areas are more sensitive than others and produce a strong response. However, many people find acupuncture to be a welcomed warm glow, a buzzing, spreading or flowing sensation. Once the needles are placed, patients often experience a restful state, even falling asleep during treatment. This is always a welcome outcome. In my experience acupuncture is a great and rejuvenating experience.
For those fearful of needle acupuncture, other treatment modalities are appropriate until such time as the patient is ready to experience needle acupuncture.
What are some causes of pain?
According to oriental medicine, statements inform us that “where there is stagnation there is pain.” Stagnation leads to obstruction with or without heat. Moving the stagnation will increase circulation, disperse heat, thereby reducing and in many cases eliminating pain. Not all cases have the same results.
What kind of needles are used, and are they safe?
In Florida as in most states, acupuncture needles are one-time use disposable needles. They are solid needles which are as thin as a strand of hair, and as such they are generally easy to use. (They do not introduce chemicals into the body.)This means that they are disposed of in a biohazard sharps container after one-time use. This prevents cross-contamination and prevents infection. Acupuncture needles are very safe when used one time and disposed of properly in sharps containers after use. I only use one-time use disposable needles.
What is Moxa or Moxabustion, and what is it good for?
Moxa is Artemisia vulgaris. The leaf is dried for years before is it processed. It is prepared into various forms for use on the body. Moxa is burned and the Moxa smoke is allowed to come into close contact with the body. There are many methods such as direct and indirect, used alone or with other herbs. The warming capability of Moxa makes it unique in expelling cold, treating both excess and deficient conditions, strengthening yang and preventing disease. Moxa can be used alone or in conjunction with salt, ginger, or garlic. In my opinion, there is nothing like Moxa.
What is cupping, and what is it good for?
Cupping is a therapy utilizing a cup or jar that is attached to the skin via vacuum suction. This suction creates local congestion. The method is simple, therapeutic, and effective. Cupping is good for warming and promoting the free flow of Qi and blood, diminishing dampness, swellings and pain. Cupping is appropriate for cough and asthma to name a few. I like fire cups made from glass, but they come in plastic, and bamboo. In ancient times animal horns were used for cupping too.
What is Gua Sha and what should I keep in mind when receiving it?
This is a scraping technique similar to cupping. As it releases the exterior, pathogens can be expelled, pain can be relieved, and circulation can be increased. These are just a few of the benefits of gua sha.Keep in mind that the marks created, show the severity of stagnation presented. These can be many shades of pink, red, to purple-blue. These marks must be kept covered with a shirt or scarf until resolved in order to prevent pathogens from re-entering the body.
What should I wear when I come for my first acupuncture treatment?
Wear loose fitting clothes that can allow access to your knees and elbows and above. This is where many points are commonly chosen. Other areas may be needed, such as the stomach area.
How should I prepare for my first visit?
Eat a light meal prior as is your normal daily routine. Drink water to stay hydrated.
Never arrive at an appointment famished or overfed, intoxicated, or overly exhausted (such as running a marathon). The body's energy cannot be moved in these situations.
What if I have other questions?
Email your questions at [email protected]
An acupuncture point is a place, space or point that can be accessed to regulate bodily functions to support the body and prevent diseases. Deep and extensive study of these points and their connecting channels or meridians is necessary to successfully strengthen health and prevent disease. There are twelve main meridians or channels comprising at least 361 points. Taking into consideration extra points, extra channels, and other (ashi) points, there are claimed to be over 600 points on the body. No wonder it requires extensive study to master. Think of an acupuncture point like the electric wall socket that allows one to access electricity. Once accessed we can turn on or off the lights. When we access an acupuncture point, we can give a message to create a change; to regulate energy balance.
Does acupuncture hurt?
Most people find acupuncture to be a very nice experience. The initial insertion has been describes as finger prick. It is true that some areas are more sensitive than others and produce a strong response. However, many people find acupuncture to be a welcomed warm glow, a buzzing, spreading or flowing sensation. Once the needles are placed, patients often experience a restful state, even falling asleep during treatment. This is always a welcome outcome. In my experience acupuncture is a great and rejuvenating experience.
For those fearful of needle acupuncture, other treatment modalities are appropriate until such time as the patient is ready to experience needle acupuncture.
What are some causes of pain?
According to oriental medicine, statements inform us that “where there is stagnation there is pain.” Stagnation leads to obstruction with or without heat. Moving the stagnation will increase circulation, disperse heat, thereby reducing and in many cases eliminating pain. Not all cases have the same results.
What kind of needles are used, and are they safe?
In Florida as in most states, acupuncture needles are one-time use disposable needles. They are solid needles which are as thin as a strand of hair, and as such they are generally easy to use. (They do not introduce chemicals into the body.)This means that they are disposed of in a biohazard sharps container after one-time use. This prevents cross-contamination and prevents infection. Acupuncture needles are very safe when used one time and disposed of properly in sharps containers after use. I only use one-time use disposable needles.
What is Moxa or Moxabustion, and what is it good for?
Moxa is Artemisia vulgaris. The leaf is dried for years before is it processed. It is prepared into various forms for use on the body. Moxa is burned and the Moxa smoke is allowed to come into close contact with the body. There are many methods such as direct and indirect, used alone or with other herbs. The warming capability of Moxa makes it unique in expelling cold, treating both excess and deficient conditions, strengthening yang and preventing disease. Moxa can be used alone or in conjunction with salt, ginger, or garlic. In my opinion, there is nothing like Moxa.
What is cupping, and what is it good for?
Cupping is a therapy utilizing a cup or jar that is attached to the skin via vacuum suction. This suction creates local congestion. The method is simple, therapeutic, and effective. Cupping is good for warming and promoting the free flow of Qi and blood, diminishing dampness, swellings and pain. Cupping is appropriate for cough and asthma to name a few. I like fire cups made from glass, but they come in plastic, and bamboo. In ancient times animal horns were used for cupping too.
What is Gua Sha and what should I keep in mind when receiving it?
This is a scraping technique similar to cupping. As it releases the exterior, pathogens can be expelled, pain can be relieved, and circulation can be increased. These are just a few of the benefits of gua sha.Keep in mind that the marks created, show the severity of stagnation presented. These can be many shades of pink, red, to purple-blue. These marks must be kept covered with a shirt or scarf until resolved in order to prevent pathogens from re-entering the body.
What should I wear when I come for my first acupuncture treatment?
Wear loose fitting clothes that can allow access to your knees and elbows and above. This is where many points are commonly chosen. Other areas may be needed, such as the stomach area.
How should I prepare for my first visit?
Eat a light meal prior as is your normal daily routine. Drink water to stay hydrated.
Never arrive at an appointment famished or overfed, intoxicated, or overly exhausted (such as running a marathon). The body's energy cannot be moved in these situations.
What if I have other questions?
Email your questions at [email protected]
Saint Augustine, Florida Rehabilitation at Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine
Saint Augustine, Florida Pain Management at Ancient City Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine
Saint Augustine, Florida Acupuncture at Ancient City Acupuncture and Herbal
Saint Augustine, Florida Pain Management at Ancient City Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine
Saint Augustine, Florida Acupuncture at Ancient City Acupuncture and Herbal