Acupuncture:
                                                 
Acupuncture is defined as the insertion of slender needles through the skin at specific locations on the body to elicit a therapeutic response.  Acupuncture is used to balance the body’s energy or qi (chi) to regain optimal health.  Qi is considered our vital life force. It flows through channels/meridians in our bodies.  Disease inhibits the flow of qi in our bodies.  Stress, emotions, physical injury/trauma, constitutional weakness, diet, or the environment can cause this.  Acupuncture corrects the imbalances within our bodies by stimulating certain points on the body where the qi comes closest to the surface (acupuncture points).  This is done safely and without side effects.  Labels like “acid reflux, fibromyalgia, and luteal phase defect,” are all Western medical terms.  Acupuncture is specific to each individual and is based on that specific person, not the label they have been given for their condition.

Pediatrics:

Acupuncture is not only for adults, but for children as well.  Because acupuncture to balance one’s body naturally and without harmful side effects, it is a great way to keep your children healthy all year long.  Depending on your child’s age, different techniques may be used.  One such technique is called Shonishin.  Using this style, different tools are scraped or pressed gently along the channels of the body.  A non-insertive needle called a teishin may also be used.  When treatment requires insertive techniques, extremely thin acupuncture needles are inserted into specific points on the body, manipulated, and then taken out.  The needles do not remain in a child for any long length of time.  Chinese herbs are another great way to treat children and can be used for acute or chronic conditions.  Acupressure techniques may be used during treatment and shown to the parents so they can continue treatment at home.  Nutritional guidelines will also be discussed to promote a healthy lifestyle for the child.

Cupping/Gua Sha:
                                                 
CUPPING: Cupping is a traditional practice that can be found in many different cultures.  During cupping, glass or plastic cups are suctioned onto the patient to help increase the flow of qi and blood through the body.  It also works to pull stagnation or toxins from the patient through the skin.  Cupping can be very effective for the treatment of the common cold.

  GUA SHA: Gua Sha is similar to cupping in that it helps to increase qi and blood to the area.  It is performed by scraping across an area of the body with an instrument similar to a Chinese soupspoon.  It is effective in breaking up adhesions and knots within the muscles.

Moxibustion: 
                                                 
Moxibustion or “moxa” is a Chinese herb that is burned during treatment.  It has warming, moving, and tonifying properties.  It can be used to build blood, move qi, and for general health.  It is placed on the head of the needle or rolled into stick form and produces a warm sensation on the skin.  It gives a different therapeutic response than acupuncture alone.

Chinese Herbal Medicine:
                                                 
Chinese Herbal Medicine is another component of Oriental Medicine that dates back over 3,000 years ago in China.  Chinese herbs are similar to acupuncture in that they are designed to be specific to the individual they are prescribed for and treat the whole person, not just the symptoms.  Chinese herbs can be used in conjunction with acupuncture or alone.  There are hundreds of herbs that can be used in combination to design custom prescriptions specific for each individual patient.