Acupuncture

What's the main difference between Acupuncture & Western medicine?

They both evaluate, prevent, and care for the same disorders, just with different approaches and theories. For example, Western medical research has emphasized accuracy in understanding anatomical structure. This has made precision in surgery possible and encouraged the development of in-depth tools like the microscope, x-rays, MRI’s, and more. In contrast, acupuncture has always looked at how natural forces, functioning in both external and internal bodily environments, affect people. Acupuncture grasps an understanding of how blood and energy (Qi) circulate in health and disease. It also acknowledges how changing seasonal and weather conditions may interfere with normal health. Acupuncture seeks to allow the disturbed flow of blood and life-energy to return to their proper condition of harmony and balance; where as Western medicine forces these changes with use of drugs and surgery.

What actually happens when an acupuncture needle is inserted?

The needle contacts and regulates an inner force called “Qi.” The changes in Qi caused by inserting the needles create changes in your internal environment and restore your health. The circulation of Qi is like an invisible maintenance crew, whose many tasks keep the body running smoothly. Qi is behind every physiological and psychological function, from the circulation of blood to the prevention of emotional hysteria. If Qi is not flowing well, guided needles are inserted to return the inner workings to as normal a state as possible. Guided needles actually perform more than 15O different kinds of healing activities, releasing blockages and restoring strength to name a few.

Exactly how many needles do you use to correct a problem?

Anywhere from I to 60 or more needles could be used, but the exact number used is not as important as how the needles are inserted and which points are chosen. On evaluation of the patient’s condition, Dr. Price seeks the most useful set of points to get the job done. You may find changes in the locations and quantities of needles from visit to visit. Since acupuncture is very flexible, which points are used will vary to meet the needs of the patient as different plateaus of correction are reached.

Are the needles sterile?

Acupuncture needles have no hollow shafts that might allow moisture and pathogens to gather, as occur with hypodermic needles. Nevertheless, Dr. Price adheres to strict standards of safety and uses only pre-sterilized

disposable needles.

How deep do the needles go?

Contact with Qi energy is made by inserting the needle under the skin. Most points require the needle to only penetrate the superficial layers of skin, while other points require deeper insertion–from 1 to 3 inches. It all depends on the body part, the condition, and the treatment objectives.

How long do the needles stay in?

For immediate “tonification” or increase of energy, a five to ten minute stimulus may suffice. Clearing procedures to get rid of harmful congestion take longer. The average visit is 30- 40 minutes.

Do the needles hurt?

The needles do not usually hurt, except an occasional pinching sensation. Acupuncture needles are thin, hair-like solid filaments. Often acupuncture pins stimulate a pleasant sensation while the body experiences a recovery.

Can you treat points without needles?

Acupuncture is a principle, not a technique; therefore there are many ways to stimulate an acupoint other than a needle. Electronic stimulation, laser beam, or pressure massage can be used with the same results. Just like there are many road routes to a particular destination, the same is true for acupuncture–the main thing is to get there!

I'm on medications....will that interfere with an acupuncture treatment?

If you are on blood thinners, like COUMADIN or WARAFIN, you may not be a good candidate for needling. Other forms of acupressure may be a better option for you.

How many treatments are needed?

Obviously the number of treatments varies with different conditions and individuals. Chronic problems generally require more treatment than acute ones. Some patients notice immediate improvement after the first treatment, whereas others may not notice any effect until the 7th or 8th 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 receive a worsening of symptoms, as the body’s energies are returning to normal. This is usual and no need for alarm. It is followed by improvement. Researchers internationally agree that the usual number of treatments is between 8 and 16. The usual frequency is between 1 and 3 times a week. Patients are urged to not 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 l0 visits would have a better chance for success.

Just like in Chiropractic, patients are encouraged to be patient with the healing process!

What conditions can be helped by Acupuncture?

Acupuncture textbooks list well over l00 different conditions that respond well to acupuncture. The World Health Organization has indicated acupuncture is effective in the following conditions:

Acute & Chronic Pain Relief
Tension, Cluster, Sinus, & Migraine Headaches
Bed Wetting
Bladder Dysfunction
Neck Pain
Elbow Pain
Knee Pain
Shoulder Pain
Arthritis Pain
Post-operative Pain
Digestive Problems
Asthma
Allergies
Skin Conditions
Hemorrhoids
High Blood Pressure
Fatigue
Anxiety
Eye Problems
Menopause Symptoms
Constipation/Diarrhea
Diabetes
Sciatica
Adrenal Problems
Thyroid Problems

Balance Your Body's Energy

Balance Your
Body's Energy

How do I prepare for a treatment?

How do I prepare
for a treatment?

Professional Compassionate Exceptional Health Care?

©2024 Happy Bones Health & Wellness.

Located in Clearwater, Florida, serving Pinellas County and the greater Tampa Bay Area