Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is a holistic system to treat individuals for a variety of physical, emotional, and psychological concerns. TCM promotes, maintains, and restores health by encouraging an even flow of energy throughout the body using acupuncture, herbs, or other treatments. When the energy flow (or Qi—pronounced “chi”) is disrupted due to stress, trauma, poor diet or any other conditions, pain or illness can result.

Acupuncture is a 5,000 year-old Chinese therapy that works by stimulating the body to naturally correct the imbalances of Qi. This is done by inserting ultra-fine, disposable needles into the skin at specific points in the body. These acupuncture points are related to energy pathways or meridians that run throughout the entire length of the body. Acupuncture points are also related to specific internal organs. The earliest known text on acupuncture is the Nei Jing (or “Classic of Internal Medicine”) that dates back to 2697-2596 BC).

The most common question people ask regarding acupuncture is “Does it hurt?” Most patients find the treatments are extremely relaxing and usually involve little or no pain. Occasionally one may feel a slight pinch at the time of needle insertion that quickly diminishes. Once a person’s Qi has been activated they may feel a dull ache or tingly sensation. For most people, these are very mild and normal responses.

Yes! Acupuncture patients range in age from children to seniors. Some seek treatment as an alternative to, or as an enhancement of Western methods, while others seek treatment for a chronic condition. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is not only used for treating ailments as they arise, but also in preventing disease. Many individuals find acupuncture and herbal medicine are great ways to maintain healthy and balanced lives. Seasonal “tune-ups” and acupuncture for stress reduction are highly recommended.

Research has shown that the body responds by releasing endorphins (neurotransmitters that stop pain), increasing blood cell counts, and heightening the immune system. Basically, acupuncture is a method of encouraging the body to promote its own healing. The ideal is to balance one’s overall energy to establish or re-establish well-being.

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is a comprehensive natural health care system that includes acupuncture, herbal medicine, nutrition, and Qi Gong. While we commonly think of acupuncture as a Chinese modality, it is also practiced in Japan, Korea, Vietnam, and Europe. The Japanese have developed their own style. Many would distinguish it as emphasizing a more subtle needle technique that does not cause sensation for the patient. As Jennifer’s teacher, Koji Ichihashi, once said, “If a patient has pain, do not cause them any more pain.”

Hara means abdomen in Japanese. Hara Diagnosis uses palpation of the abdomen to determine any patterns of disharmony that may exist in the organ systems. In Western medicine, your doctor palpates the abdomen for tenderness, masses, or other abnormalities in the local area. In TCM and Japanese acupuncture, we palpate for diagnosis and to achieve instant feedback regarding our treatment.

Acupuncture treatments are enhanced in combination with Chinese herbs (in the form of a medicinal tea or capsules). A formula may be prescribed to prolong the effectiveness of acupuncture between treatments. Like acupuncture, herbal formulas treat a variety of symptoms while stimulating the body’s natural healing process. They can be used to strengthen a weak constitution, alleviate cold and flu symptoms, and relieve constipation. Ask Jennifer if a formula might help with your particular condition.

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM’s) strength is in working with the whole person. After a thorough review of personal and familial health and history, time is spent learning about your lifestyle and habits pertaining to overall health. This information — in conjunction with pulses and tongue conditions — provide the basis for a TCM diagnosis and treatment plan. Patients usually start with once-a-week treatments which are tapered in frequency as conditions improve. Some acute conditions can be treated in fewer than five treatments. Generally, acupuncture has a cumulative effect, with treatments building upon each other. Jennifer encourages patients to actively participate in their healing process by addressing dietary or herbal needs as well as providing relaxation techniques.

• We will spend time learning about your current situation and health history. Save time and arrive prepared by completing your forms beforehand.

• Wear loose fitting, comfortable clothing that can be easily rolled up above your elbows and knees. Some people like to bring a pair of shorts to change into. However, in case you can’t do either please know we have plenty of sheets to keep you appropriately draped and comfortable.

• Please be sure you have eaten at least a light meal within a few hours prior to arriving. For your comfort, avoid overeating immediately before treatment.

• Avoid coffee and especially alcohol prior to your treatment. Alcohol can adversely affect the results of your cosmetic treatment, so please keep this in mind for after treatments as well.

• Avoid strenuous exercise two hours before and after treatment.

• Once you enter the treatment room, either put your cell phone on airplane mode or turn it off completely. The electromagnetic radiation emitted from your cell phone interrupts the healing process. You may also want to do the same when you sleep at home.

• Don’t rush. Feel free to arrive a little early and relax a few minutes before your treatment. Also consider booking your appointment so you have plenty of time to get to your next event or simply go home and relax.

In November 2007, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) formally endorsed acupuncture, determining it effective for relief of postoperative pain and nausea associated with pregnancy or chemotherapy. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is also often used to treat these common conditions:

• Allergies/asthma

• Anxiety/depression

• Arthritis/joint problems

• Back pain

• Bladder/kidney problems

• Colds/influenza

• Constipation/diarrhea

• Dizziness

• Effects of chemotherapy

• Fatigue

• Gastrointestinal disorders

• Gynecological disorders

• Headache/migraine

• Heart palpitations

• High blood pressure

• Immune system deficiency

• Insomnia

• Menopausal discomfort

• Neck pain/stiffness

• Premenstrual syndrome

• Sexual dysfunction

• Skin problems

• Stress/tension

• Tendinitis