Ancient Art of Acupuncture in Anthem
Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese treatment dating back over 2,500 years. The general theory behind the treatment is that energy, Qi (also known as chi or gi), flows through the body. When the flow of energy is altered or disrupted for any number of reasons, it’s thought that this can cause disease. According to Chinese medical theory, inserting thin metal needles into specific meridian or pathway points in the body can help restore balance.
From a more scientific approach, acupuncture is often explained as a neuroscience concept. The pathway points are viewed as places in the body where muscles, connective tissue and nerves can be stimulated. Stimulating these points with needles helps the body to increase blood flow to the areas while triggering natural painkillers.
Although acupuncture has only been popular in Western cultures since the late 20th century, the interest and integration into common treatment practices has grown rapidly. The FDA now regulates acupuncture needles just as it regulates scalpels, syringes and other medical devices. Even the U.S. Air Force has taught acupuncture to physicians preparing for deployment.
Certification & Standards
Acupuncture practitioners receive a lot of training; there are about 50 accredited, four-year colleges in the United States that offer certification in Acupuncture & Oriental Medicine (AOM) or Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Although regulations vary by state (California has its own Board Certification while a few states aren’t regulated at all), many acupuncture practitioners are board certified by the National Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine. In Arizona, the State of Arizona Acupuncture Board of Examiners regulates and maintains acupuncture standards of practice.
What to Expect During Treatment
Most agree that acupuncture works best as part of a holistic plan and series of treatments, generally about 12 sessions in a series. The first visit will include a thorough examination and assessment, insertion of the needles and tips for home and self-care to complement the treatments. Session lengths vary depending on the ailment being treated, though most are 30-60 minutes.
During treatments, you will lie down (face up or face down, depending on the pathway locations). Single, sterile, disposable needles will be inserted at varying depths. While not painful, you can feel the needle and may feel an aching sensation when the needle reaches a specific depth. Needles remain in the body for around 20 minutes. Heat or light electric stimulation may be added to enhance stimulation.
Why Should I Try Acupuncture in Anthem?
Acupuncture has been shown to benefit a variety of different ailments for patients of all ages. It can relieve allergy symptoms and help sufferers use medications less frequently. Migraine headaches can also be lessened. Regular acupuncture has been known to reduce overall stress and increase relaxation, leading to better sleep. The immune system can also receive a boost in activity from the cells that seek and destroy infections. Back pain, relief from menopause symptoms and weight loss are other common issues that can be helped with acupuncture, either on its own or part of a treatment plan. And as part of a holistic treatment, acupuncture may also help relieve nausea in patients undergoing chemotherapy.
Pure Health and Wellness has a board certified acupuncturist and herbalist specializing in compassionate, natural therapies. As part of the Pure Health team, Acupuncturist Carrie Ducharme works alongside medical doctors, chiropractors and other therapists to provide a multi-pronged treatment approach. Call today or make an online appointment for a free consultation.