What is acupuncture?
Acupuncture is the insertion of thin, sterile needles at specific points on the body. It is part of a system of medicine that developed in China over 2000 years ago. Through a carefully chosen prescription of points, balance is restored to the body. Acupuncture utilizes the body's natural ability to heal, resulting in better health, increased vitality, and reduced pain. Other Chinese medical treatments are explained on our services page.
What conditions does acupuncture treat?
The World Health Organization (WHO) has made a list of conditions that acupuncture effectively treats:
Adverse reactions to radiotherapy/chemotherapy
Gallstones
Depression
Painful periods
Stomach pain (peptic ulcer, acute and chronic gastritis, gastrospasm)
Facial pain
Low blood pressure (Primary hypotension)
High blood pressure (Primary hypertension)
Inducing labor
Correcting malpositioned fetus
Allergic rhinitis (including hay fever)
Knee pain
Low back pain
Sciatica
Dental pain (TMJ pain and other dental pain)
Postoperative pain
Pain caused by kidney stones (renal colic)
Stroke
Dysentery
Rheumatoid arthritis
Sprains and strains
Tennis elbow
Arthritis of the shoulder
The World Health Organization goes on to list 81 further diseases and symptoms for which acupuncture has shown positive effects, but where more research is needed to draw a definitive conclusion. If you have a question about whether you think acupuncture might work for you, feel free to contact Cheryl House at (925) 953-3055.
Adverse reactions to radiotherapy/chemotherapy
Gallstones
Depression
Painful periods
Stomach pain (peptic ulcer, acute and chronic gastritis, gastrospasm)
Facial pain
Low blood pressure (Primary hypotension)
High blood pressure (Primary hypertension)
Inducing labor
Correcting malpositioned fetus
Allergic rhinitis (including hay fever)
Knee pain
Low back pain
Sciatica
Dental pain (TMJ pain and other dental pain)
Postoperative pain
Pain caused by kidney stones (renal colic)
Stroke
Dysentery
Rheumatoid arthritis
Sprains and strains
Tennis elbow
Arthritis of the shoulder
The World Health Organization goes on to list 81 further diseases and symptoms for which acupuncture has shown positive effects, but where more research is needed to draw a definitive conclusion. If you have a question about whether you think acupuncture might work for you, feel free to contact Cheryl House at (925) 953-3055.
Do the needles hurt?
Most people experience minimal discomfort, if any, during an acupuncture treatment. Acupuncture needles are MUCH thinner than the hollow hypodermic needles that you are accustomed to (you can fit many acupuncture needles into one hypodermic needle). They are also hair-thin with tips specifically designed for painless insertion. Many people experience a deep sense of relaxation and well-being, as well as increased energy in the days following treatment.
How does acupuncture work?
Acupuncture regulates the flow of qi in the body. Qi is the "vital energy" of our body, which gives function and movement to our body's internal organs, muscles, and bones. Similar to the way blood circulates through blood vessels, qi circulates through channels called meridians that run along the surface of the body from the tips of our toes all the way to the top of our head. These meridians connect deeper into the body to supply our muscles, bones, and organs with the energy they need to function properly. Without qi, we could not move, feel emotions, eat, digest food, repair, or grow - we would be a lifeless lump of flesh.
Through the stimulation of acupuncture points on these meridians, the acupuncturist can move the "stuck" qi, add qi to the body, or help it flow in the proper direction. When our qi is moving properly through the meridians, our organs are functioning well and we enjoy good health and balanced emotions. Acupuncture points on the surface act as a type of switchboard to restore proper functioning of our muscles, nerves, organs, and hormones. Acupuncture helps to assure the optimal functioning of our mind and body so we are able to prevent health problems before they occur.
Western medicine has several different theories for how acupuncture works. One is that acupuncture stimulates the body to release endorphins, which are natural painkillers that reduce our perception of pain. Other theories say that acupuncture stimulates nerves that reach the brain faster than pain signals can reach the brain, thereby blocking the sensation of pain. Another theory says that the acupuncture takes advantage of the interconnectedness of our peripheral and central nervous systems.
Through the stimulation of acupuncture points on these meridians, the acupuncturist can move the "stuck" qi, add qi to the body, or help it flow in the proper direction. When our qi is moving properly through the meridians, our organs are functioning well and we enjoy good health and balanced emotions. Acupuncture points on the surface act as a type of switchboard to restore proper functioning of our muscles, nerves, organs, and hormones. Acupuncture helps to assure the optimal functioning of our mind and body so we are able to prevent health problems before they occur.
Western medicine has several different theories for how acupuncture works. One is that acupuncture stimulates the body to release endorphins, which are natural painkillers that reduce our perception of pain. Other theories say that acupuncture stimulates nerves that reach the brain faster than pain signals can reach the brain, thereby blocking the sensation of pain. Another theory says that the acupuncture takes advantage of the interconnectedness of our peripheral and central nervous systems.
Is acupuncture safe?
Yes, acupuncture needles are disposable (discarded after one use) and come in a sterile, vacuum sealed package. When performed by a licensed acupuncturist there is minimal risk involved in acupuncture. If you have any concerns about the safety of acupuncture, please call our office.
Does your office take insurance?
Yes, our office does accepts Blue Shield plans, and bills out of network for other insurance plans. Please call the office at (925) 953-3055 and we will gladly verify your insurance plan’s acupuncture coverage.
I still don't like needles...can I get a treatment without them?
Yes, acupuncture is only one component of the system of Chinese Medicine. Other therapies that are equally as effective include:
- Herbal Therapy
- Moxibustion
- Cupping
- Gua Sha
- Chinese massage (tui na)
- Acupressure
- Qi Gong
- Dietary therapy
I feel fine and don't have any health complaints. Can I still benefit from acupuncture treatments?
Yes, Chinese Medicine is a great way to keep your immune system functioning optimally so you don’t catch the cold or flu. It can also help you reduce stress, prevent disease and illness, sleep more soundly, digest and absorb your food more effectively, and feel your best.
