Acupuncture

Acupuncture Facts

Acupuncture, simply stated, is a health science which is used to successfully treat both pain and dysfunction in the body. Acupuncture has its roots deeply seeded in China. In fact, authorities agree that the science is between 5,000 and 7,000 years old.

At first, Acupuncture appears strange as its primary notoriety is the utilization of needles placed in the skin at various location to relieve pain or affect a body part.

Early Chinese physicians discovered there is an energy network traversing just below the surface of the skin which communicates fro the exterior the internal organs and structures at over 1,000 acupoints of the body. When this vital energy becomes blocked or weakened, an effect in a body system or anatomic location becomes evident. Stimulation of one or a combination of key “Acupoints” on the body may restore harmony to the affected area.

How Does it Work?

Sometimes, after extensive testing, a patient may be told, “There is nothing wrong,” “it is all in your head.” Though our country has the best medical technology, not everything can be diagnosed utilizing these wonders. Now, physicians are referring these patient for acupuncture evaluations as a last resort.

The human body’s energy flow courses over twelve meridians or channels that are normally well balanced. If a disruption of energy flow exists, it can alter the entire system, producing pain or symptoms in the body.

It is acupuncture’s goal to restore normalcy to the body’s energy balance by utilizing a combination of points located on the twelve meridians. It is accomplished by a variety of means including but not limited to, very thin needles, electrical impulses and laser.

Medical research continues in this country and others to attempt to explain in western scientific terms what the ancient     Chinese seventy centuries earlier described. Today, many theories have been postulated as to why Acupuncture is so effective in pain control. However, as more discoveries are made, more research is indicated.

Is Treatment Painful?

One would assume inserting a needle in to the skin would be painful since most of us can relate to being stuck with a pin or having a hypodermic injection. However, four Acupuncture needles can easily be inserted into the hollow tube of a hypodermic needle. Most patients describe the feeling as more of a “mosquito bite” feeling. Our office also practices low voltage electrical stimulation of the points as well as our new laser to affect the isolated Acupoints.

Obviously the number of treatments vary with different conditions and individuals. Chronic problems generally require more treatment than acute conditions. Some patients notice an immediate improvement after the first treatment, whereas others may not notice any effect until the seventh or eight visit. It’s been shown that a certain percentage of patients receive maximum benefit up to three months following a course of therapy.

A small number of patients will experience a worsening of the symptoms, as the bodies energies are returning to normal. This is usual and no need for alarm. It is followed by improvement. Researchers internationally agree the usual number of treatments is between eight and sixteen The usual frequency is between two and four times a week.

Patients are urged not to enter an Acupuncture program with the thought of “taking a few” to see what will happen. Even though it is possible to achieve success, a program of ten visits would have a better chance for success. Patients are encouraged to be patient with the healing process. If the treatments are recommended and results occur in just five visits, the doctor may elect to discontinue treatments or continue their use to stabilized the condition.

The office of Dr. Clinton M. Smith practices an all sterile needle technique. All needles are disposable and are one use only. Laser therapy may be utilized depending on the condition being treated.

Are Results Psychological?

Critics of acupuncture have suggested this science is hypnosis or “mind over matter.” This criticism is unfounded as Acupuncture has startling effects in infants and toddlers as well as veterinary applications. The effect is has in surgery as an anesthetic further disclaims the skeptics. Even total disbelievers report favorable response to Acupuncture. It can be stated though, that a positive outlook is obviously beneficial though in all phases of life, including healing.

Cost

For a first time visit, a health history, review of past medical tests and a detailed examination will be performed. This may cost up to $60.00. Subsequent visits may cost up to $35.00 per application.

You may not be a candidate for acupuncture. Your condition may warrant additional testing or other treatment modalities. Your condition may even necessitate a referral to another health care practitioner.

Dr. Smith has 14 years of experience in diagnosis and treatment of illness and musculo-skeletal conditions. Rest assured, only your best interest will be kept at heart.

Are the results permanent?

For acute problems where there has been little or no organ system or tissue damage, results are often permanent. For chronic condition, symptoms may recur from time to time. Generally a few additional treatments are sufficient to obtain relief. It is suggested that patients with severe or chronic conditions return for a booster treatment two to three times a year.

Addiction Control

Acupuncture has gained a great deal of notoriety in recent years concerning its considerable success with addiction control. We are currently working on a weight control protocol as well.

Our smoking cessation program uses acupuncture to rid patients of a deadly habit. Since starting the program in 2000, the system has boasted at 70% success rate. Join in! Enjoy life without smoking. Click the link at the top of this page for full details, instructions and release forms.

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© copyright 2008 Clinton M. Smith, D.C.,P.C.  All rights reserved.