The World Health Organization, National Institutes of Health and various other sources recognize the ability of acupuncture and traditional Chinese medicine to treat various clinical disorders. Among these are:

• Gastrointestinal disorders, such as nausea, ulcers, constipation, chronic diarrhea and indigestion.

• Urogenital disorders, including stress incontinence, urinary tract infections and sexual dysfunction.

• Gynecological disorders, such as irregular, heavy or painful menstruation, premenstrual syndrome and infertility in men or women.

• Respiratory disorders, such as asthma, sinusitis, common cold, and bronchitis.

• Musculoskeletal and Nervous System disorders, including arthritis, neuralgia, headaches, low back pain and sciatica.

• Circulatory disorders, such as hypertension, angina pectoris, arteriosclerosis and anemia.

• Emotional and Psychological disorders, including depression, irritability, and anxiety.

• Addictions to alcohol, nicotine, or drugs.

• Eye, Ear, Nose, and Throat disorders.

• Oriental Medicine can also provide supportive therapy for many other Chronic and Painful Debilitating conditions.

The basic idea behind Traditional Chinese Medicine is that the flow of Qi (pronounced 'chee') throughout the body is essential for health. The Qi helps nourish the tissues of the body and supports the physiological functioning of the organs. When this flow is disturbed disease and pain may follow. Additionally, the proper functioning of the body is dependent upon a balance between two opposing yet interdependent forces of yin and yang. When out of balance there will be an interruption of health. The therapies used are aimed at restoring the flow of qi and bring yin and yang back into balance so that the body can return to its normal state of health.

Research is starting to show us specifically what is going on in the body when acupuncture needles are inserted.  Studies using functional MRI show that cortical activity increases with the needling of certain points. Other studies have shown that there is a release of endogenous opioids (the bodies natural painkillers) when needles are inserted. Some think that the acupuncture meridians and qi are a communication system in the body that is manipulated through the various therapies utilized by an acupuncturist.

Qi (pronounced 'chee'), often translated as energy, moves throughout the body by way of meridians or channels. It is along these meridians that the acupuncture points are found. When the qi of the body is out of balance or not flowing properly (or both) it will cause disease. Acupuncture works to restore the balance of the body and ensure that qi is moving properly throughout the body.

When most people  hear the word "needle" they think of hypodermic needles used for injections or blood draws. Unlike hypodermic needles, acupuncture needles are solid and very thin. While hypodermic needles have a chisel-like edge that cuts through tissue acupuncture needles have rounded tip that pushes through the skin. This allows needle insertion to be relatively painless compared to getting a shot. Most of the time there is no sensation during needle insertion, though a slight pinch is sometimes felt.

For those who do not wish to use acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine is a great way to experience the healing power of Traditional Chinese Medicine. Though there are many people who find that acupuncture needles are not so scary and are able to overcome their fear in order to discover the benefits that acupuncture can offer.

Appointments are scheduled for one and a half hours for the first visit. Return visits are one hour. For those with time constraints please let us know when scheduling your appointment.

For some, acupuncture and oriental medicine is an attempt to avoid conventional medical treatments such as drugs or surgery. We encourage all patients to continue to regularly see their primary care physician while undergoing treatment of any health condition. Acupuncture can be used in conjunction with conventional Western medicine and together they may be more effective than either one alone.

Herbs can often be a great adjunctive therapy in combination with your regular medication. However, it is very important let us know of all medications and supplements you are using so that we may prescribe an appropriate herbal formula for you. Likewise you should keep your prescribing physician updated of any supplements (which includes Chinese herbal medicine) that you are taking.

The number of treatments needed will vary greatly according to the condition being treated and whether it is acute or chronic. For acute conditions it may take only a few treatments where as chronic conditions require more treatments. At the time of your initial visit we will be able to give you a better idea of what to expect in terms of treatment length.

Please check the benefits on your specific policy to see if acupuncture is a covered service. East Side Acupuncture is a participating provider for Pomco, Excellus Blue Cross - Blue Shield, and RMSCO.  Other insurance providers may be added in the near future so call to find out if your visits can be covered.

You can also use your flexible spending account at our office for acupuncture services.