Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)

What Is Traditional Chinese Medicine?

Traditional Chinese Medicine is a complete medical system which has served Chinese for at least 3000 years. The approach of TCM is fundamentally different from that of Western medicine. It has a particular representation of human being, and of human functioning and dysfunction. In TCM, understanding of the human body is based on the holistic understanding of the universe as described in ancient Chinese philosophy.

The treatment of an illness is based primarily on the differentiation of the pathological patterns. For example, if two different diseases present the same symptom, the treatment in the two cases can be identical or different, depending on the origin of the problem.

In TCM, the organs (Zang-fu) such as the heart, the lungs, the liver, the kidneys, etc, - control the functioning of the human body. The organs are connected by a network of meridian channels within the human body. When a dysfunction of the organs occurs, it can be reflected on the surface of the body. At the same time, the symptoms manifesting on the surface of the body can also affect the corresponding organs - and the latter can affect one another by the internal connections.

In TCM, one begins with the analysis of the overall system. One then moves to the treatment phase, bringing about the required correction of the pathological changes by adjustment of the functioning of the organs.

TCM has a highly developed diagnostic framework and an extremely effective system which has gained worldwide renown for this medical art.

Is Traditional Chinese Medicine Effective?

Traditional Chinese Medicine is not simply a method of relaxation. This medicine has served the Chinese people for 3000 years and today is used by at least a quarter of the population of the world, mainly in Asia. It proves itself every day as a remarkably effective medicine, even for serious illnesses.

What Can Acupuncture and TCM Do?

Modern research confirms that TCM and acupuncture are reliable and effective. According to a recent research conducted in China, acupuncture can treat 461 types of illness.

Breathing problems : tracheitis, asthma, cold, cough, rhinitis, etc.

Digestive diseases : stomach-ache, indigestion, acid reflux, ulcers, diarrhea, gastro-enteritis, constipation, etc.

Circulatory problems : facial paralysis, stroke sequelae, palpitation, cold hands/feet, etc.

Problems of the reproductive system : pain in breasts, irregular, painful, heavy menstruation, menopause, sterility (male and female), etc.

Pains : lumbago, headache, migraine, toothache, sciatica, backache, arthritis, etc.

Emotional problems : insomnia, depression, anxiety, etc.

Other issues : excessive consumption (cigarettes, drugs, etc.)

Is Acupuncture Painful ?

When the needles are inserted in the skin, the patient will feel a mild pricking sensation or numbness around the point, and perhaps a feeling running along the meridian line. This indicates that the treatment is in the process of acting.

Most patients find the treatment very relaxing and many fall asleep during the course of a treatment session.

Is Acupuncture Safe ?

When performed by a qualified acupuncturist, acupuncture is the one of the safest treatments in the world. Moreover, needles are used only once, thereby assuring your safety.

How Many Treatments are Necessary ?

The duration and frequency of treatment depend on the particular individual and particular problem. Illness that have occurred only recently required less treatment but chronic illness need more. For certain conditions, a single treatment can have very beneficial effects.