What is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is one of the five branches of Traditional Chinese Medicine that has developed over a period of at least 3000 years – the other branches include Herbal Medicine, Tuina Massage, Chinese Diet Therapy and Exercise (Tai-Chi).
Acupuncture involves the insertion of fine needles into prescribed acupoints proven to be effective in treating a broad range of health conditions.
How does Acupuncture work?
According to Traditional Chinese Medicine Theory, Acupuncture performs certain functions- regulates the flow of Qi (pronounced ‘Chee’) throughout the acupuncture channels and organs and removes blockages from the channel pathway- it strengthens the body’s protective Qi- by stimulating certain points on acupuncture channels brings about balance by either clearing excessive conditions, tonifying deficiencies and generally creating more balance in our body
What are the benefits of Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture?
Acupuncture has the following benefits:- acupuncture provides drug-free pain relief- effectively treats a wide range of chronic ailments- treats the underlying cause of disease and illness as well as the symptoms- provides a holistic approach to the treatment of disease and illness, incorporating body, mind and emotions- assists in the prevention of disease and illness as well as maintaining general well-being.
Traditional Chinese Medicine takes a holistic approach to understanding the normal function and disease processes and focuses as much on the prevention of illness as on the treatment. Most diseases or illnesses present with a core set of recognisable signs and symptoms, but the actual presentation of a particular condition will vary from person to person. Because of this, people with similar health conditions may be provided with quite different treatment plans, so as your condition changes and improves, treatment is also adjusted and modified until the desired health outcome is achieved.
Does Acupuncture hurt?
The thought of needles makes some people nervous. However, they usually discover that acupuncture can be quite relaxing. All needles are single-used needles made of surgical stainless and are very fine. When the acupuncture point is engaged or activated, there can be a slight heavy sensation, warmth, or a tingling sensation around the surrounding area. After treatment, patients usually feel quite relaxed.
How many treatments will I need?
This varies widely, depending on the duration, severity and nature of your health concern. An acute condition may resolve within a few treatments, with chronic problems being treated or managed over a longer period of time. It is best to schedule once or twice a week, to begin with to gauge the effectiveness for you. Some conditions need continued treatment on a weekly, bi-weekly or monthly basis. The benefits of treatment are cumulative, and once patients feel better, they come less frequently to maintain the results
Does insurance cover the treatment?
Yes, different health funds cover varying amounts for treatments. We are registered with the major health funds and have a HICAPS facility to claim your rebate at the time of your treatment.