Acupuncture may have its roots in ancient medicine, but its ability to relieve pain and stress makes it an ideal treatment for these busy times. At Kalani Total Health Center in Oxnard, California, our experienced acupuncture professionals provide painless treatment for chronic pain, injuries, and other health issues. Call the office or make an appointment online today.
Acupuncture Q & A
What is acupuncture, acupressure, and cupping?
Acupuncture is a medical treatment that dates back to ancient China, in which a trained professional inserts tiny needles at strategic points throughout the body for pain relief and stress management. Depending on their goals and your condition, some people find acupuncture treatments most effective when they get them on a semi-regular basis.
According to traditional Chinese medicine, the needles redirect the flow of energy through the body. Modern practitioners also believe it stimulates nerves and muscles in a way that boosts your body’s natural painkillers.
Acupressure and cupping use the same principles as acupuncture, but without needles. Acupressure locates the same strategic points, then manipulates them with direct, precise pressure, similar to what occurs in massage or chiropractic.
Cupping is a type of acupressure, in which tiny cups are used to create vacuums against the skin. These cups and the lightly pressurized environment they create are used to stimulate the pressure points.
Who can benefit from acupuncture?
People who choose acupuncture may often be living with:
- Neck pain
- Osteoarthritis
- Lower back pain
- Dental pain
- Headaches, like tension headaches
- Migraines
- Labor pain
- Menstrual pain
- Respiratory disorders
- Nausea and vomiting
Acupuncture can also relieve the pain and stomach upset that sometimes occurs when recovering from an operation or during chemotherapy.
What should I expect when receiving acupuncture, acupressure, or cupping?
To plan your treatment, your acupuncturist will ask you a variety of questions to understand your health history; you may also receive a physical exam. In addition to examining the area of your body that hurts, your acupuncturist may examine things like your tongue and the shape and color of your face, or check your pulse.
During a treatment session, your acupuncturist will ask you to remove any clothing from the general area where they will be inserting needles. This may not be the area in which you’re experiencing pain.
Once you’re ready, the needles will be inserted at various depths throughout certain areas. These needles are so thin that you’ll feel minimum discomfort; many people don’t feel them at all. Your acupuncturist may manipulate or move the needles once they’re inserted, and the needles will remain while you relax for a period of time.
The needles are then removed, and you’re able to immediately resume your day. Your acupuncturist may recommend a series of treatment sessions for maximum benefit, depending on your injury or condition.
Call Kalani Total Health Center today!
