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| What is Acupuncture? |
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| For more than 3,500 years, acupuncture has been providing relief to people around the world. Originally developed and practiced in China, this soothing therapy is today embraced by patients who seek to alleviate symptoms caused by ailments that range from arthritis to migraines to the after effects of chemotherapy. It is even effective in helping people quit smoking. At Innovative Family Wellness, we offer this type of smoking cessation treatment with success. |
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| Acupuncture draws on the belief that an energy called Qi (pronounced “chee”) circulates throughout our body, from the top of our head to the soles of our feet. When we experience good health, this energy flows unobstructed along pathways in the body called meridians. Each meridian is believed to be connected to a specific organ system, and when an energy flow is disrupted by a disease or an injury, illness or pain occurs. Acupuncture is then used to balance the flow of Qi and stimulate our body’s natural ability to heal. |
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| Acupuncture is one of the most utilized services offered at Innovative Family Wellness, and is most effective with regular and frequent treatments. |
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| What does Acupuncture Treat? |
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| Acupuncture Helps Treat Numerous Diseases and Conditions |
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| The World Health Organization endorses acupuncture, and clinical studies have shown it to be a beneficial treatment for many conditions, including: |
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- Chronic pain: migraines, neck and back pain, tendonitis, sciatica, carpal tunnel syndrome, fibromyalgia and rheumatoid arthritis
- Digestive disorders: irritable bowel syndrome, colitis, gastritis and constipation
- Urinary and reproductive disorders: menstrual cramps, irregular or heavy periods, infertility and menopausal symptoms
- Psychological and emotional disorders: depression, anxiety, stress and insomnia
- Symptom management for adverse reactions to chemotherapy and radiation, including fatigue, generalized pain, dry mouth, peripheral neuropathy, nausea and vomiting
- Seasonal allergies
- High blood pressure
- Addictions to nicotine, alcohol and drugs
- Overweight or obesity, when coupled with diet and exercise
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| What Can I Expect? |
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| About Acupuncture |
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| Acupuncture treatments involve placing hair-thin needles of varying lengths into certain areas of the skin. The number of slender needles – as few as three, as many as 20 – and the length of time they are kept in place depends on the ailment being treated. During the treatment, the needles may be twirled, warmed or electrically energized to intensify healing effects. Some patients may feel a tiny prick when the needle is inserted. Others feel a tickle. But many patients don’t feel a thing. |
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| Acupuncture sessions generally run for 15-30 minutes. Patients lie on a padded table, in a quiet room and are able to relax. Some patients say they feel an electrical sensation during a treatment, which is good – because that means healing energy is moving through the body. Most people end up falling asleep on the table, feeling peaceful, yet energized after the treatment. |
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| Acupuncture Compliments Traditional Medicine |
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| Acupuncture works nicely as an adjunct to your traditional treatment plan. For example, many patients undergoing chemotherapy also use acupuncture as a way to lessen the side effects associated with chemotherapy. Acupuncture has also been used as a complementary therapy in the treatment of allergies, asthma, sinusitis, pain, hot flashes, insomnia, IBS, and infertility, and is used in conjunction with physical therapy for rehabilitation from serious injury. |
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| I'm Scared of Needles. Can I still have Acupuncture? |
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| Yes! We offer a non-needle, non-invasive type of acupuncture that is called electro-acupuncture. This style of acupuncture delivers a comfortable micro current that stimulates the very same points as traditional needle acupuncture. This type of acupuncture is very desirable and well-tolerated by children and adults alike. |
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| Can Acupuncture Help Me Lose Weight? |
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| Yes! The stimulation of particular acupuncture points can be of great assistance in weight loss and an excellent companion to a healthy, well-balanced diet. Certain acupuncture points can be effective for appetite suppression and control of cravings. It is also advised to consider the patient's hormone levels, thyroid levels, stress and cortisol levels, and exercise level, as all of these factors can play a tremendous role in the body's ability to lose weight. Dr. Erickson can perform a thorough metabolic evaluation and provide the patient with a customized diet and supplement plan designed specifically for the purpose of healthy weight loss. |
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