Acupuncture is a healthcare system over 2000 years old. Acupuncture promotes your body's natural healing and allows for increased functioning. Very small needles are inserted into specific points in the body, which encourages its own healing.
Medical Acupuncture can be helpful in treating many symptoms and diseases. The World Health Organization recognizes the use of acupuncture in the treatment of a wide range of medical problems, including:
- Pain problems
- Digestive problems
- Sinusitis, asthma, and bronchitis
- Headaches, migraines, facial tics, sciatica
- Arthritis, neck pain, back pain, tendonitis, frozen shoulder, tennis elbow
- Urinary, menstrual and reproductive problems
- Physical problems related to tension, stress and other emotional conditions
Traditional Chinese Medicine views the body as having channels of energy running throughout it. These channels (meridians) are responsible for transporting energy nourishing the organs and tissues of the body. Pain and disease states represent blockages in the channels; the flow of energy is restored by the acupuncture needles in the specific points. Restoration of the energy flow allows the body's self-healing.
The stimulation of the acupuncture points also causes the release of chemicals in the muscles, spinal cord and brain. These chemicals change how pain is perceived and trigger the release of other chemicals that influence the body's internal regulating system.
Acupuncture is generally very safe. There is a small risk of bleeding, bruising and infection. Only disposable, sterile needles are used.
Most patients have no side effects. Patients typically feel very relaxed during and after the treatments. Occasionally, there can be a temporary worsening of symptoms. This is generally regarded as indication that the treatment is having an effect. Dr. Hansch will evaluate this and adjust the treatment if needed. There may also be a general change in appetite, sleep, and bowel or urination patterns, or an emotional state may be triggered.
People experience the acupuncture needles differently. Some people feel a slight pinprick when the needles are initially placed, while others may experience a dull ache. Many people do not notice any pain at all.
Some insurance companies cover the cost of acupuncture, while other companies do not yet recognize the value of acupuncture. Each health policy must be reviewed individually to determine coverage. Please call your insurance company to determine what they will cover.