Can acupuncture or traditional Chinese medicine treat my health issues?
Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is an ancient system of medicine that employs acupuncture and herbal medicine. It stresses the importance of diet and lifestyle for good health. TCM and acupuncture are based on the premise that each living being contains a life force, or qi, (pronounced chi), and that any blockage, disruption, or imbalance of the flow of qi is the root of illness.
Qi flows through channels or 'meridians' in the body, which are each associated with organs, such as the liver and the kidneys. On these meridians are points into which acupuncture needles can be inserted to have an effect on the qi in that meridian.
These points are like wells of energy and each point effects the qi in that meridian differently.
Traditional Chinese medicine and acupuncture can be used to treat any health concern, including:
- anxiety, depression
- digestive concerns (e.g. irritable bowel syndrome, Crohn's disease, Colitis, chronic constipation, GERD)
- infertility
- insomnia
- pain (e.g. rheumatoid or osteoarthritis, muscle or joint pain, injuries)
- smoking cessation
- symptoms of menopause
- weight loss
How acupuncture works
During an acupuncture session, very thin, sterile needles are inserted into acupuncture points and are left in place for 15-30 minutes. These needles are most often hardly felt. People usually feel very relaxed during a treatment and even fall asleep.
Traditional Chinese medicine and everyday life
Prevention and living in balance with nature and the seasons are very important in traditional Chinese medicine. For example, drinking ice water would only be recommended in very hot weather in the summer and never in the winter, as the body would then be using too much energy to keep itself warm. Therefore, warm or hot drinks are recommended during the winter. Certain foods are also recommended for certain seasons (e.g. a warming drink like coffee is better to have in cold, damp weather; warm and easily-digested foods like soups and stews at the changes in seasons; cooling watermelon only in the summer).
Dr. Nicole Shortt, ND, is trained in traditional Chinese medicine, and licensed to perform acupuncture and prescribe traditional Chinese herbal formulas. We offer traditional Chinese medicine and acupuncture Vernon health-seekers turn to for safe and effective results.
Can acupuncture or traditional Chinese medicine help you?
