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2366 Eastlake Ave E, #239 Seattle, WA 98102
@ Peak Integrative Medicine 1300 114th Ave SE, #105 Bellevue, WA 98004 |
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Acupuncture: An Ancient Healing Art for Modern Times |
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A Brief Introduction to Acupuncture
Acupuncture is one of several tools used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), a tradition, science and art of diagnosis and treatment that has a history of more than 3,000 years (in it’s rudimentary form, acupuncture may date back as far as 5,000 years).
Acupuncture is the balancing of the body’s energies or Qi (pronounced CHEE) via the insertion of very fine, sterile needles into specific points on the body. These points lie on the 14 major energy pathways (aka channels or meridians). These pathways circulate Qi and run throughout the body including the head, arms, hands, legs, feet, torso and internal organs.
Qi is the vital force of Life. To be living is to be imbued with Qi. It’s balanced, free flow is imperative for sound health. Any blockage, misdirection or aberration in the amount, flow or balance of Qi may result in pain, dysfunction and ill health.
The goal of acupuncture is to harmonize the body’s Qi flow so that all systems, organs and body parts are working in concert and, thereby, creating a state of well-being. |
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Phone: (206) 300-1530 In Seattle, WA
Phone: (206) 300-1530 In Bellevue, WA |
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Some Commonly Asked Questions:
Is Acupuncture Painful? Acupuncture is rarely painful. There are occasions when the chosen point can be sensitive to needle insertion. However, good communication between practitioner and patient is often enough to make the experience more comfortable. Most people find it quite comfortable.
Are the Acupuncture Needles Like the Ones Used to Draw Blood or Give Injections? No. Acupuncture needles are much, much finer in gauge than the needles used in injections or drawing blood. They do vary in gauge with some being almost as fine as a hair. Ask your acupuncturist to show you a needle and to give a demonstration before your treatment.
Are Acupuncture Needles Safe? Yes. Acupuncturists are required by law to follow very strict sterilization procedures. Most acupuncturists today use pre-sterilized needles that are manufactured and packaged in sterile “blister packs”. Each needle is used once and disposed of appropriately under OSHA guidelines.
How Long Do Treatments Take? Your first office visit will take longer than any follow-up visits as your acupuncturist will need the time to get to know your health history and the details of your condition. It is common for a first office call to last ~ 1.5—2 hours. Return office visits are much shorter and generally range anywhere from 45 minutes to 1 hour.
How Many Treatments Does it Take? It depends upon your condition and how long the problem has been present. Some conditions can be helped in only one session while some require a course of treatment, ranging from a few visits to several weeks of regular visits.
Do I Have to Believe In Acupuncture for It To Work? No. Acupuncture has been used in veterinary medicine with great success which demonstrates that belief is not required. However, a positive outlook and attitude are always helpful to any therapy. |
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Acupuncture: An Ancient Healing Art for Modern Times |
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Vajra Acupuncture Acupuncture in Seattle & Bellevue Maya Vajra, L.Ac. |
