Acupuncture
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), which includes acupuncture, offers a complementary approach to healthcare that can effectively treat or manage a variety of conditions in both the physical and mental/emotional realms. It’s not a magical cure-all, although some patients do experience truly amazing results. In general, TCM is a relatively side-effect free option for dealing with your health concerns. While it’s not as easy as taking a pill—a course of treatment may take several weeks to months, and personal lifestyle changes are often critical to effectively addressing issues—the over all quality-of-life benefits gleaned are proof-positive that acupuncture and TCM are worth the commitment.
Traditional Chinese Medicine is an ancient medicine that has sought to continually improve and build upon itself for more than 3,000 years. TCM is a medicine that was developed not only through careful examination of the human body, but also through diligent observation of the environment. In China, explanations of health, as well as disease, were often recorded as metaphors relating to patterns found in the natural world. The following explanation reflects this perspective:
Traditional Chinese Medicine is based on a network of energetic pathways that run throughout the body like rivers. These rivers carry Qi (energy), which propels the blood through the vessels, and together they irrigate and nourish the tissues and organs. When obstructions occur within the river, due to a slowing of the flow and a piling up of debris (aka deficiency and stagnation, respectively), or when pollution is added and accumulations build (e.g. heat, toxins, phlegm), irregularities, pain, and “dis-ease” will begin to manifest. The goal of Chinese Medicine and acupuncture is to recognize that the river system will not always run perfectly clean and smooth, but through supporting a dynamic balance, harmony and health can prevail.
Practitioners
Forrest Wilburn, LAc
Bio
