What is Traditional Chinese Medicine?
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is a complete system of medicine that evolved in China over 3,000 years ago, and has been used traditionally to improve general health, as well as prevent, diagnose, and treat disease. Utilizing modalities such as acupuncture, moxibustion, gua sha, cupping, and herbal medicines, TCM can help to restore balance to the body for optimal health and well-being.
TCM is grounded in the fundamental concept of Qi (“Chee”), which is the inherent vital energy or life force that animates all living things. Qi flows within pathways throughout the body called meridians, connecting our physical, mental-emotional, and spiritual aspects of health. When the free flow of Qi is disturbed, or there is an improper amount of Qi anywhere in the meridians, disease can arise.
What is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is one of the modalities used in TCM which can help restore balance to the amount and flow of Qi within the body. With the use of fine thread-like needles, Qi can be accessed for treatment along the meridians at specific anatomical sites called acupuncture points. While modern science is still catching up to this ancient form of medicine, the working scientific theory for acupuncture is that the inserted (and sometimes manipulated) needle stimulates connective tissue, muscles and nerves, causing the central nervous system to react with biochemical changes and modulated nerve signaling within the autonomic nervous system, and thus, promote healing, pain relief, and balance within the body.
Treatments are generally relaxing and safe under the performance of properly trained professionals. Mild side effects such as fatigue, soreness, minor bruising or bleeding may occur temporarily, depending on the nature of the treatment, techniques utilized, initial state of the patient’s health, and skills of the practitioner. Dr. Shi may refer her patients out to a qualified licensed acupuncturist for acupuncture or other physical TCM modalities on an individual basis.