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What is Acupuncture?

 

Acupuncture is an ancient mode of healing where very thin, sterile, single use needles are inserted into special points on the body, which focuses on restoring proper energy flow to the various organs, glands and tissues of the body. The points generally lie along meridians, or energy channels, that run through and along the surface of the body. It is in these meridians, or channels, where blockages occur and thus causing pain or illness. The blockages can be removed through the stimulation of the acupuncture points.

Although many are still skeptical about acupuncture, it is a time tested therapy that was first developed in China thousands of years ago and it is still very much a main method of healthcare today. It is the oldest continuously practice medicine in the world, but it is also evidence based and endorsed by the World Health Organization (WHO). WHO endorses acupuncture for the treatment of over 40 different health complications such as chronic pain, migraines, digestive disorders, depression and anxiety, the common cold, menstrual issues, and stress.

 

How does Acupuncture work?

 

According to classical theory, acupuncture works by removing the obstructions in the meridians. Like rivers of energy, these meridians flow along regular pathways to irrigate and nourish the body’s organs and tissues. An obstruction in the flow of the rivers is like a dam that backs up the natural flow of energy, causing an imbalance that manifests as sickness and pain. By inserting the needles in the acupuncture points, an acupuncturist removes the blockages and restores the natural balance and flow of the body; thus, restoring health.

In contrast to the classical theory, modern science proposes that needling acupuncture points stimulate the nervous system to release biochemicals, such as endorphins, immune system cells and other hormones, in the muscles, spinal cord and the brain. The release of these chemicals stops the pain and improves involuntary body functions such as blood flow, immune responses, body temperature and digestion. By stimulating the nervous system and influencing these body functions acupuncture can help the body heal itself naturally.

 

Is Acupuncture safe?

 

Yes. It is important that you make sure that you are being treated by a Florida licensed acupuncturist. Your acupuncturist must adhere by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM) established guidelines for Clean Needle Technique. All needles must be pre-packaged, single use, sterile needles.

 

What can Acupuncture Treat?

 

Acupuncture can treat a wide variety of health concerns. Since acupuncture stimulates the body’s natural healing processes, it can safely treat issues such as: chronic muscle pain, headaches, migraines, digestive disorders, menstrual disorders, infertility, emotional problems like anxiety, depression stress; allergies, addictions, just to name a few.

What is Cupping?

 

Cupping is an effective way to improve the condition of your soft tissues. It is administered when traditional massage is too painful or cannot release the muscle tensions. Suction cups are used to lift and ‘separate’ the top layers of your skin from the muscles. This increases circulation to the area causing soft tissues to return to their proper state. These will leave circular marks like bruising in the area where they were placed. The bruising will disappear within a few days.

 

What is Acupuncture Injection Therapy?

 

Acupuncture Injection Therapy, AIT, follows the same principles as Acupuncture but sterile organic substances are injected into acupuncture points to enhance the acupuncture treatment. The substances are FDA approved. These are administered via a hypodermic needle. Your therapist will recommend these based on your ailment. These are usually provided for conditions such as muscle spasms, inflammation and stress. Administering of vitamin B12, B6 and C will be available soon.

 

What is Micro-Curent Bio-Feedback?

The Avazzia device stimulates the nervous system a little differently from the traditional TENS units. The Avazzia uses micro-current to target the C-fibers of the nervous system. In stimulating these fibers, the body is prompted to produce neuropeptides to heal itself. The micro-current responds to the body's tissue characteristics and electricity. This is what makes it different to a TENS unit as it works with the body's own mechanisms to heal and clear pain. *avazzia.com

What can I expect during my acupuncture visit?

 

In your first session, you will complete a comprehensive intake form followed by a detailed interview by your acupuncturist. The more information you share about your condition the more specific your treatment will be. You will then be asked to lay on the treatment table where our acupuncturist will inspect your tongue and take your pulses. She will then begin placing the needles. Once all the needles have been placed, you will lay for 25 to 35 minutes and will be left to relax. Once time is up, the needles will be removed. If your condition requires massage, cupping or injection therapy, it will be done at this time. If your condition does not require these additional therapies, you are done. It is important to schedule your follow up session before leaving, as acupuncture works best in consecutive weekly sessions, depending on your condition.

 

How should I prepare for my Acupuncture visit?

 

You should dress comfortably in loose fitting clothing. Plan to spend about 60 to 70 minutes for your first session and about 50 minutes for all your follow up sessions.

 

How many sessions will I need?

 

The number of sessions needed varies from person to person. Some people will experience a great improvement after one session, while others may take weeks or months to feel any relief. Long established chronic conditions generally take longer to resolve than acute one, and the longer the person has had the condition, the longer it usually takes to resolve. Other factors that influence the number of sessions required include the severity of the problem and the patient’s lifestyle, overall health and constitution.

What forms of payment do you accept?

I accept cash, checks and all major credit cards, including FSA debit cards. Insurances accepted: United Healthcare, BCBS, Aetna, Cigna,

Optum - Veteran's Program. When requesting an appointment, please 

include your insurance carrier. 

Have More Questions? Contact us anytime!

Testimonials

 

Orlando D.

Gus B.

“As always I feel transformed after leaving your studio. You are the best in every sense.”

“Michelle is the consummate professional and her skills are top notch. Very talented and knowledgeable in many aspects of health and well being. I highly recommend!.”

“Michelle is extremely observant and knowledgable.  She has been able to help me with many issues and adapts her treatment to however I am feeling that day. I always leave her acupuncture sessions feeling better than how I came in.”

Martha W.

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