Acupuncture has been an important component of Oriental Medicine for thousands of years. The theory of acupuncture is based on an energetic model of the human body in which energy, called qi (pronounced "chee"), flows through the body via a network of inter-connected energy pathways called meridians. When the qi becomes blocked, it becomes stagnant causing pain. Disease may result when an organ is not getting enough energy to function properly. Acupuncture is the practice of inserting extremely fine needles into the body at specific points that over thousands of years have been mapped throughout these energetic pathways. Cumulative clinical experience has shown that each point has a specific action in the body by facilitating the smooth flow of energy to ease pain or to improve the functioning of the vital organs in the body. When the body’s qi is flowing smoothly from the top to bottom, side to side and front to back then there is harmony in the system. In Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospitals there are three departments: the first department involves manual massage and manipulation (yes, similar to chiropractic treatment), the second department has acupuncture treatments and the third department dispenses herbal medicine.

The World Health Organization has recognized over 40 common health problems that effectively improve or resolve with acupuncture treatment of energy imbalances. Most people are aware that acupuncture treats pain, but many do not know the wide range of painful conditions that are commonly improved with acupuncture. Acupuncture treats pain anywhere in the body, including but not limited to: back pain, frozen shoulder, carpal tunnel syndrome, TMJ, trigeminal neuralgia, arthritis, fibromyalgia, sciatica, plantar fasciitis, shingles pain and migraines.

But acupuncture can also be effective in the treatment of energy imbalances found with digestive disorders such as nausea, acid reflux and irritable bowel syndrome. It is commonly used to treat energetic issues connected with asthma and sinus problems. Acupuncture is very powerful to balance the body’s energy in relation to various gynecological problems including PMS, menopausal symptoms, endometriosis and even infertility. Depression, anxiety and insomnia often improve with acupuncture treatments which balance the energetic pathways of the body. Patients who suffer with conditions such as Meniers’s Disease, Bell’s Palsy and post stroke paralysis can also be helped with acupuncture treatments.

The new acupuncture patient will be asked to fill out a complete medical history and information sheet similar to those used in Western medical offices. Dr. Lee will ask many questions and undertake a thorough consultation regarding your health and your treatment goals. Since Dr. Lee is a chiropractor, western physical examination as well as traditional Chinese examination will be performed. Part of the oriental approach includes a special pulse diagnosis and a specific tongue diagnosis. A discussion of your personal traditional diagnosis with the doctor will be followed with any questions you may have. Your acupuncture treatment prescription will be discussed, which may include application of acupuncture needles or other treatments as indicated.

Then the treatment will be performed and the needles will remain in for one to twenty five minutes and then removed. At that point home instructions may be given which typically include avoiding drafts, cold water and alcohol for the remainder of the day. Other lifestyle issues may be discussed also. Return visits are frequently scheduled to re-evaluate and continue therapy. Initial courses of treatment can vary from three to ten visits over the first month.