Japanese Acupunture, Cranio-Sacral Therapy, and Chinese Herbal MedicineHere at Old Town Acupuncture we offer many different modalities in order to work with your specific conditions. While acupuncture is very effective on its own, it is often used in combination with herbs or massage. Below are some definitions and explanations of the types of treatments you can expect when visiting us.
Japanese Acupuncture
Traditional Japanese Acupuncture is named for its dedication and
adherence to concepts originating in early classic texts of Chinese
medicine, which came to Japan in the 7th century A.D. These texts,
the Nan Jing, Ling Shu, and Su Wen are at the heart of Chinese Medicine
and are unfortunately not emphasized in TCM training, being thrown
out in the 1960's "Cultural Revolution"; China experienced
for being not "modern" or "western" enough.
It is precisely what is contained in the texts that makes Japanese
Acupuncture so unique and effective. In Japan there was a revitalization
of these texts in the 1920's amongst a study group of primarily
blind acupuncturists. They attracted followers because of their
clinical success. The method known as Meridian Therapy blossomed
in the '50s and '60s. Now it is one of many styles practiced in
Japan. Procedure Traditional Japanese Acupuncture is particularly suited to those who are uncomfortable with strong needle stimulus, or are fatigued or otherwise weakened. It is well suited for pediatric treatment without the use of needles. Treatment reduces the effort needed to maintain homeostasis; it makes things easier. If you are anxious, tense, tired of pain, or just worn out you will appreciate this. The goal of acupuncture is to get life energy, or Qi, circulating in the body. Most patients find an acupuncture treatment profoundly peaceful and relaxing. Those who fear needles can be treated with the Enshin, Taishin, and Zanshin.Other alternatives include touch needling, point massage, moxibustion and cupping.
Chinese Herbal MedicineHerbal medicine is a major component of Traditional Chinese Medicine and has been used for over 3000 years in China and worldwide. Before pharmaceuticals (and even the use of acupuncture needles) herbal remedies were used to heal and balance the human body. Chinese herbs have shown their effectiveness under the scrutiny of both empirical study and modern clinical trials. These herbs can be used to augment the treatment of a particular imbalance, working together or sometimes in place of acupuncture and other medicines. Unlike most pharmaceuticals, herbal prescriptions in Chinese Medicine are tailor-made for the individual.
MoxibustionThe Moxa herb is used for its warming and tonifying characteristics. Moxibustion (the process of burning Moxa) either on a needle or directly on the skin helps build the Qi and rid the body of excess moisture. Patients usually enjoy this sensation of warmth and find it very relaxing. The heat never gets close enough to the skin to burn. Where appropriate, Moxibustion is included with an acupuncture visit. Moxibustion treatments, by themselves, are also available.
CuppingCupping is an old technique performed in both China and the West. The process traditionally uses glass jars, heated to create a vacuum, and placed on the upper back to relieve acute illnesses such as colds and fevers. Cupping can also be done all over the body to invigorate the flow of Qi and to relieve tension and pain. It is often used for treating upper and lower back ache, chronic nausea & vomiting, sciatica, frozen shoulder and more.
Gua ShaGua Sha is a Chinese treatment, similar in effect to cupping. Gua stands for rubbing or friction. Sha stands for congested or stagnant blood at the surface of the body. When friction is applied in repeated, even strokes, the sha surfaces as small red petechiae. Usually a Chinese soup spoon is used to create this effect. It is wonderful at treating stiff upper necks and backs and dealing with everyday stress. Gua Sha is included in an acupuncture visit or can be done separately.
Shoni-shinShoni-shin is an effective treatment for children and infants. It can enhance circulation and relaxation, thereby improving health in general. Shoni-shin is a form of bodywork that makes use of small metal tools designed to bring qi to the surface, help it move by "spreading" it along the channels, and stimulate specific acupuncture points. There are about a half-dozen different tools in a shoni-shin kit, none of which penetrate the skin. Children usually love holding the tool for you, or playing with the other tools you are not using, or trying to guess which tool you are using without seeing it. A shoni-shin treatment can be performed in 10 to 20 minutes depending on the age of the child and the severity of the illness. Even a very guarded or frightened child will usually warm up to the idea of shoni-shin, and many actually look forward to it as a kind of game that you, the doctor, are playing with them.
CranioSacral Therapy
From the Upledger Institute: Nutritional Counseling
Everyone knows that diet and nutrition are instrumental in maintaining
good health! Dietary changes and nutrition are fully integrated
into the theories of Chinese Medic and are key to maintain health
and success in a Chinese Medicine treatment.
As such, Traditional Chinese dietary recommendations are given to
patients throughout treatment. Additionally, I frequently make recommendations
for western nutritional supplements as needed. |
||||||||||||
|
