ACUPUNCTURE
Acupuncture is a form of health care used to relieve pain and correct dysfunction in the body. Energy flows throughout the human body via invisible channels located just below the surface of the skin known as meridians. This energy normally travels throughout the inside of the body in a balanced manner to allow communication between the organ systems. If the flow of energy becomes blocked or interrupted, the function of an organ system can be negatively affected, producing pain or other symptoms.
There are many acupoints located along the body’s twelve meridians that correspond to the organ systems. Stimulation of one or more of these acupoints can help restore the proper balance to the affected area.
It is agreed upon that the science of acupuncture originated in China approximately 5000 years ago. Chinese physicians have used acupuncture to treat a variety of ailments for many years, and in many instances it is still used as anesthesia for certain surgical procedures. Its popularity and applications have spread throughout the Middle East and Europe over the years, but it wasn’t really recognized in America until the early 1970’s when diplomatic relations between U.S. and China were improved. Today acupuncture is widely acknowledged as one of the most effective forms of “alternative health care” available.
To restore harmony to an imbalanced system, the doctor stimulates affected acupoints, typically by inserting a needle, although other means of stimulation can be used. The needles are extremely fine and flexible, and it is common for the patient not to even feel the insertion of the needle. The doctor will then stimulate the needle in an effort to “contact the Chi” (move energy). At this point an ache, heaviness, or tingling sensation may be experienced as the blocked energy is released.
Acupoints are located throughout the body, and there is a form of acupuncture known as auriculotherapy in which the ear is stimulated. Since many of the cases for which a patient comes into the office for acupuncture are chronic (long-term), it may take a while to see results. About 8-12 sessions are an average for a typical condition, however sometimes results are seen immediately. Patience is necessary for the overall healing process of any condition.
Although acupuncture is commonly administered for various pain syndromes such as, low back pain, shoulder pain, and knee pain, relief from migraine headache, allergies, digestive problems and bladder problems is often realized as well. Acupuncture has even been found to be helpful in enabling patients to quit smoking and control their weight. Ask Dr. Nabzdyk if acupuncture may be right for you.
Dr. Nabzdyk is a holistic physician with over 16 years experience. He owns and operates ABC Wellness & Rehab, providing individualized nutritional coaching, acupuncture, and chiropractic, as well as hormonal and allergy testing. Call (815) 609-7735 for more information.
