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Melody Sams

Melody Sams, L.Ac, M.S., LMT
1610 Post St., Suite 305
San Francisco, CA 94115
(415) 350-2343

info@ melodysams.com

ACUPUNCTURE
AND
TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE

Q: What is Traditional Chinese Medicine?
Q: What is Acupuncture?
Q: How does Acupuncture work?
Q: What is Moxibustion?
Q: What does Traditional Chinese Medicine treat?
Q: Is Acupuncture Safe?
Q: What are the physical sensations of treatment?
Q: How long will it take to feel results?
Q: How do I prepare for a treatment?

Q: What is Traditional Chinese Medicine?

A: Traditional Chinese Medicine is an Ancient Healing Art that has been practiced for many centuries in Asia. It incorporates a variety of healing modalities such as acupuncture, herbal formulas, moxibustion, cupping, therapeutic massage, dietary counseling and exercise.

Q: What is Acupuncture?

A: Acupuncture, a primary aspect of Chinese Medicine, is a therapeutic method that treats disease by the insertion of a very thin needle into specific “points” on the human body in order to induce a physiological response. The Chinese discovered the location of these points thousands of years ago. Through the use of electromagnetic research, modern science has confirmed their existence.

Q: How does Acupuncture work?

A: Western science notes its effects on many of the body's systems including the neurological, endocrine, respiratory and digestive systems. The Chinese medical model, however, sees the body in a different way. Chinese medicine posits a vital energy in all living things known as “ Qi ” (pronounced “ chee ”). According to this model, Qi runs in a circuit around the body. If there is a disruption in its flow (such as through trauma, stressors, poor diet, etc.,) then the subsequent imbalance will lead to symptoms. The insertion of needles at specific points along the meridians reestablishes the flow of Qi, and encourages the body's inherent healing abilities.

Q: What is Moxibustion?

A: Moxibustion is the use of the herb Mugwort (Folium Artemisiae Argyi) to invigorate blood circulation, warm, and stimulate acupuncture points.

Q: What does Traditional Chinese Medicine treat?

A: Because Chinese medicine is a comprehensive medical system, a wide variety of conditions are treated. The National Institute for Health and the World Health Organization have officially recognized the benefits of Chinese medicine, declaring acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine effective in treating over 40 conditions. Some of these are:

Musculo-Skeletal Disorders: Arthritis, low back pain and sciatica, TMJ, tennis elbow, frozen shoulder, disc problems, fibromyalgia, carpel tunnel syndrome.
Gynecological Disorders: PMS, uterine fibroids, ovarian cysts, menstrual irregularity, menopausal syndrome, infertility, sexual dysfunction (both women and men).
Gastro-Intestinal Disorders: Acid reflux, nausea, indigestion, diarrhea, constipation, ulcers, colitis.
Respiratory Disorders: colds & flu's, asthma, allergies, sinusitis.
Neurological: Post-stroke paralysis, Bell's palsy, neuralgia, headache, migraine, dizziness.
Circulatory Disorders: Hypertension, high cholesterol.
Psycho-Emotional: Anxiety, depression, insomnia, nervousness, stress, smoking/additions.
Uro-genital: UTI, incontinence, impotence.
Additional Benefits: Increased energy, relaxation, strengthened immunity.

Q: Is Acupuncture Safe?

A: Yes, when practiced by a licensed acupuncturist, acupuncture is extremely safe. The needles are sterilized, individually packaged, and disposable.

Q: What are the physical sensations of treatment?

A: Acupuncture needles are hair-thin and generally painless. There is a wide range of sensations as acupuncture activates the body, including warmth, tingling, numbness or heaviness at the point of insertion. There may be no sensation at all. Many patients report a deep sense of relaxation during their treatment.

Q: How long will it take to feel results?

A: This varies, depending on the length and severity of the condition. A new problem or acute condition may take only a few treatments to see significant improvement. A longer course of treatment is usually necessary for chronic conditions. A typical course of treatment lasts between 8-12 treatments (once a week for 2-3 months). We will discuss reasonable expectations for your particular condition after an evaluation.

Q: How do I prepare for a treatment?

A: Before receiving treatment, have a light meal. Wear comfortable clothing. Please do not come under the influence of alcohol or recreational drugs.

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