Acupuncture


Acupuncture involves the gentle insertion of extremely fine, sterile, disposable needles into specific points on the body. The human body is like a complex electrical circuit, composed of an intricate network of meridians that transport Qi, blood and body fluids throughout the entire system. There are over 500 acupuncture points along these meridians, or Qi pathways, of the body with specific locations and functions. By stimulating these points with needles, the Qi (energy or life force), which flows along these meridians is influenced to stimulate the body’s innate healing response, clear blockages and encourage the normal flow of Qi, thus restoring balance and therefore health to the individual. Each meridian also connects with an internal organ and thus the functioning of that organ can also be influenced through acupuncture.

Most people are surprised to discover that acupuncture is not painful and they often find the experience to be extremely relaxing. In addition to the relief of their condition, people often report a profound sense of clarity, calm and well-being after an acupuncture session.

Melinda often uses other TCM therapies in conjunction with acupuncture to further stimulate the points and meridians of the body and to assist in the treatment of many conditions:

Moxibustion involves the burning of a herb called Mugwort and is used to warm, nourish or stimulate a certain area of the body, an acupuncture point or a meridian. The heat from the moxa stick penetrates into the muscles, tendons and bones to activate Qi and blood circulation and warm the meridians. This may be used alone or in conjunction with acupuncture to enhance its effect.

Cupping involves the application of glass cups over the skin, using a flame to remove the oxygen and create a vacuum. The suction from the cups draws out toxins from the body and helps to move stagnant Qi and blood throughout the body to restore normal function and relax the muscles and tissue.

Guasha involves gentle scraping of the skin on certain areas of the body with a special smooth edged tool. This scraping helps to stimulate healing, release toxins from the body and to clear areas of stagnation from the muscles and connective tissue allowing fresh blood and nutrients to flow freely.

Tuina, Traditional Chinese remedial massage, involves the use of physical therapy, such as massage, and soft-tissue manipulation combined with the use of Chinese herbal liniments to stimulate specific pressure points, release blockages and tension, promote the flow of Qi and blood through large areas of the body or for general relaxation and wellbeing.

Acupuncture may be used alone or in conjunction with
Chinese herbal medicine
and/or lifestyle and dietary advice to enhance treatment outcomes.
See also Chinese herbal medicine for more details.

Sydney's Eastern Suburbs | Kingsford Coogee Randwick Maroubra Kensington Eastgardens Eastlakes
Wholistic Natural Medicine | Suite 2/372 Anzac Pde Kingsford (nr Barker St) | Ph 02 9662 4634

Sydney’s Inner West | Newtown Camperdown Enmore Stanmore Erskineville Glebe Annandale
Newtown Osteopathic Health | Suite G05W/138 Carillon Ave Newtown | Ph 02 9565 2793

All material copyright © 2009 by Melinda McDonald. All rights reserved.