What does Acupuncture Treat?
According to the World Health Organization there are over 40 common disorders which acupuncture treats effectively. These include:
1) Respiratory disorders such as colds, flu, bronchitis, allergies, asthma
2) Ear, nose and throat disorders such as earaches, toothaches, sinus problems, laryngitis, rhinitis, TMJ or jaw pain
3) Musculoskeletal disorders such as low back pain, tendonitis, tennis elbow, sciatica, arthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome, fibromyalgia, shoulder pain, knee pain
4) Gastrointestinal disorders such as indigestion, diarrhea, constipation, nausea, ulcers, IBS
5) Psychoemotional & Neurological disorders such as depression, headache, anxiety, insomnia, migraine, dizziness, post-stroke paralysis, trigeminal neuralgia
6) Circulatory disorders such as high cholesterol, hypertension
7) Urogenital disorders such as stress incontinence
8) Gynecological disorders such as menstrual irregularity, endometriosis, PMS, menopausal syndrome, infertility
How Does It Work?
Acupuncture is based on ancient theories of the flow of qi (pronounced 'chee'). Qi flows through distinct channels within the body somewhat like the nerves and blood vessels. The theory is that acupuncture accesses and adjusts the flow of qi in the body and leads it to areas where it is insufficient and drains it from areas where it is stagnant or excessive. In this way, acupuncture restores harmony and balance to the body. In Chinese there is a saying, 'If there is pain, there is no free flow. If there is free flow, there is no pain.'
What Can I Expect on my First Visit?
On your first visit to see Stephanie, please arrive 10 minutes early to fill out paperwork. Once completed, you will talk with Stephanie about your main complaint and related symptoms, and she will go over your general health history as well, to get a more complete picture of you. Your first visit will last approximately 1 - 1.5 hours. Return visits will be 50 to 60 minutes.
Generally, there is no need to undress for treatment, but wear comfortable, loose clothing. Arrive for you treatment with a little something in your stomach - neither too full nor too hungry. It is important to remain tranquil and avoid vigorous activity following your treatment.
Here is a picture of one of the treatment rooms at Stephanie's office. She also has a room with a reclining chair which is very comfy!
Is Acupuncture Safe?
Acupuncture is extremely safe when performed by a trained, licensed, and competent professional. All licensed acupuncturists today use individually packaged, sterile, disposable needles.
Does Acupuncture Hurt?
Acupuncture needles are normally about the thickness of a human hair and the insertion is practically painless. In most cases you will not even know the needles are there. It is nothing like receiving an injection. Sometimes one might feel some tingling,
warmth, heaviness, or a feeling of the qi moving up and down the channels. Most people find acupuncture very relaxing and many people fall asleep during treatment.
How many treatments will I need?
It depends on the nature as well as the duration and severity of your complaint. You may need only a single treatment for an acute condition. Chronic problems may require 5-10 treatments. Some degenerative conditions may require many treatments. Your practitioner
may suggest dietary modifications, specific exercises, relaxation techniques, self-massage, and/or chinese herbal medicines to help reduce the number of treatments you need.
What do I need to do before receiving treatment?
You should do the following in order to receive the maximum benefits from your treatment.
- Wear loose clothing. Women should not wear one piece dresses. Avoid wearing stockings.
- Avoid treatment when excessively fatiqued, hungry, full, emotionally upset, or shortly after sex.
What should I do while receiving treatment?
- Relax and ask your practitioner any questions you have so that you can get the most out of your treatment.
- Do not make any sudden movements or change your position during treatment. If you are uncomfortable, tell your practitioner.
What should I expect after treatment?
Most often a patient will experience dramatic results in the first treatment. Some experience an immediate total or partial relief of their pain or other symptoms. Some of the symptoms or pain may return. In some cases the symptom or pain will diminish over a few days. Generally, you should expect to feel better.
Stephanie Schmidt L.Ac. 1207 W. Northwest Blvd. Spokane, WA 99205 (509)326-2570
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