Acupuncture
Acupuncture is based on the concept that the body has a vital energy, or Qi (pronounced Chee), which flows throughout the body along different channels or pathways. Chinese medicine believes pain or illness are often caused by a disruption or blockage of this Qi flow. Acupuncture activates or unblocks the flow of Qi by the insertion of very thin, sterile needles into specific points on the body. This action restores the body’s balance and stimulates the body’s natural healing processes.
While there is currently no formal ‘scientific’ explanation for how acupuncture works, it has been suggested that acupuncture point stimulation can alter nervous system activity, regulate hormone levels and increase blood flow to specific areas (1). Clinical studies so far have shown that the benefits of acupuncture vary from relieving migraine and low back pain, to reducing post-operative and chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (2). Many other studies are continuing to look at how acupuncture may be beneficial to a wide range of health conditions.
Because acupuncture treatments are designed to affect the whole body, you may find that it assists more than one of your health issues, in addition to the reason you attended the clinic. For example, some patients report improved sleep, a strong energy boost or feeling calmer. Many patients also feel a sense of relaxation after their acupuncture treatments and a general increased sense of wellbeing.
Corradino M., 2017, Neuropuncture: A clinical handbook of neuroscience acupuncture, 2nd edition, London:Singing Dragon
McDonald J and Janz S (2017) The Acupuncture Evidence Project. Commissioned by AACMA
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Other Services
Chinese Herbal Medicine
Chinese herbal medicine may be used together with acupuncture or as a stand-alone treatment. Patients are given an herbal formula, usually containing a number of different herbs. These formula are devised by the practitioner based on the patient’s specific health requirements
Cupping
Like acupuncture and herbal medicine, cupping is a therapy that has been used for thousands of years. This technique uses small glass cups as suction devices applied to the skin and muscles. This process encourages Qi and blood flow into the area and breaks up stagnation or congestion.
Gua Sha Massage
Gua Sha (pronounced “Gwa Shah”) is a gentle form of massage that involves rubbing or scraping the skin with a round edged tool. The massage tool itself may be something as simple as a Chinese soup spoon, or it may be a beautifully moulded piece of jade.