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Integrative Health Centers provides acupuncture services in Towson and Parkville, MD.
What is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture has existed as part of a complex medical system known as Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM).
It dates back at least to the 2nd century BC when the first known book of acupuncture was written. Many in China believe oral traditions of acupuncture probably date back five to ten thousand years.
Acupuncture is a method of encouraging the body to promote natural healing, returning the body to balance, and improving function. Most commonly this accomplished by inserting needles at very precise acupuncture points (acupoints).
Other modalities may also be used such as applying heat (known as moxibustion) to acupoints. Other techniques include cupping and electrical stimulation. The technique of acupressure does not use needles but direct pressure to acupoints.
How does Acupuncture work?
Acupuncture is based on the theories of Traditional Chinese Medicine. TCM states that in nature, as well as in the human body, there are two major opposing forces, Yin and Yang.
Yin represents the female aspect and is associated with coolness, stillness, water and the structural aspects of organs. Yang represents the male aspect and is associated with heat, activity, fire and the functional aspect of the organs.
In good health Yin and Yang are in perfect balance.
TCM also maintains that there are subtle energies known as Qi (pronounced "chee") which circulate and nourish all aspects of the body. Qi travels throughout the body in channels of energy called meridians.
An obstruction in a meridian blocks the free flow of Qi and can manifest as pain or other dysfunction. The balance of Yin and Yang and the flow of Qi can be influenced by insertion of needles at specific acupoints on the meridians.
What is Acupuncture used to treat?
While acupuncture in the United States has frequently been associated with pain control, it has much broader applications. Acupuncture can be effective as the only treatment or in conjunction with herbal medicine or conventional medical therapies.
The World Health Organization recognizes the use of acupuncture in a wide range of medical problems including the following:
- Neurological and muscular disorders: headaches, neck and shoulder pain, low back pain, sciatica, arthritis, tennis elbow, movement disorders, and post-stroke rehabilitation.
- Respiratory disorders: allergies, sinusitis, bronchitis, and asthma.
- Digestive disorders: gastritis, ulcer disease, irritable bowel syndrome, constipation, diarrhea, nausea and vomiting.
- Urinary, menstrual and reproductive complaints: Painful or heavy menstruation, infertility, and irritation of the bladder.
- Miscellaneous: addiction problems, obesity, insomnia, stress and depression.
Conditions Treated
Click below to find more information about using acupuncture to treat the following conditions. Don't see your condition listed? Contact us to find out what we can do to help you.
Want more information about Acupuncture?
If you live in the Baltimore metro area and you would like to learn more about how acupuncture treatment can improve your quality of life, please contact us today. |
