Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What is Traditional Chinese Medicine?
A. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has evolved over thousands old years. TCM practitioners use various mind and body practices, such as acupuncture and herbal medicine, to address health issues.
Q. What is acupuncture?
A. Acupuncture is one of the oldest healing practices in the world. It involves the stimulation of specific acupoints in the body to correct imbalances in the flow of Qi (pronounced “chee”) or life energy flowing through the bodies meridians. While acupuncture is most commonly associated with the insertion of thin, solid needles into the skin. Skilled practitioners typically employ a range of additional techniques including moxibustion (the burning of herbs) and cupping (the placement of suction cups on the skin).
Q. Does acupuncture hurt?
A. While the experience will be different for everyone, acupuncture usually doesn’t cause discomfort or pain. Often you won’t feel the needles being inserted, because they are thin and gently inserted. Once the needle reaches its intended depth, you’re likely to feel a mild, dull ache or a slight tingling sensation. Feelings of warmth may also arise at the acupuncture points.
Q. Does acupuncture work?
A. Research has shown that acupuncture can be used with effectiveness in the treatment of a wide range of conditions, from musculoskeletal and gastronomical issues to mental health, stress, reproductive and gynecological concerns. Acupuncture has been proven to effectively complement the treatment of conditions such as allergic rhinitis, osteoarthritis, headaches and chronic lower back pain.
Q. Why should I try acupuncture?
A. Acupuncture focuses on drug-free pain relief and can be effective in the treatment of a number of acute and chronic ailments. It takes a holistic approach by addressing the underlying cause or condition, as well as the symptoms. Acupuncture focuses not only on the ailments but assists in prevention again disease and maintenance of general well-being.
Q. What is the difference between acupuncture and dry needling?
Both modalities involve the placing of needles at specific point in the body, but there are vast differences. Acupuncturists study for a minimum of four years and are requested with the CMBA. Acupuncture follows a holistic approach by balancing the body, mind and spirit, while dry needling focuses only on the affected area.
Q. What is Chinese Herbal Medicine?
A. Herbal therapy is important in traditional Chinese medicine. It has been used for centuries in China, where herbs are considered fundamental therapy for many acute and chronic conditions. These herbal formulas can be provided in pills, capsules, granules or liquid form.
Q. Is Chinese herbal medicine safe?
Herbs can act on the body as powerfully as pharmaceutical drugs and should be treated with the same respect. Only use herbal medicine given to you by a Traditional Chinese Medical practitioner to ensure you are taking to correct herbs safely.
Q. Can I take Western medication and Traditional Chinese medicine together?
Clinical research in hospitals in China has shown that using both Western and Chinese medicine can speed up recovery and prevent or reduce risk of disease. If you choose to take both types of medication, it is suggested that you take one type of medicine two hours after taking the other.