How does acupuncture work?
Historical texts of acupuncture explained that channels of energy run in regular patterns inside the body and over its surface. These energy channels called the meridians are like rivers flowing through the body. These energies defend, nourish, and energize. Illness in acupuncture language means obstructions in the movement of these energy channels. Health means that all energy channels are robust and moving freely.
Putting needles in actual acupuncture points can influence the meridians. Acupuncture needles are expected to unblock the obstructions, and reestablish the regular flow of energy to the meridians. Acupuncture treatments can therefore help the body’s internal organs to correct imbalances in the various functions like digestion, absorption, and in the elimination, circulation, increased energy and reduce pain. Acupuncture signals body and brain to begin healing.
What is medical acupuncture?
The modern explanation is that when we put needles into the acupuncture points, the brain and spinal cord get to modulate chemicals like Beta-endorphins. Activities of such substances like Beta-endorphins and Serotonin in the nervous system create healthy responses by calling to action our body’s natural defenses, pain control, and healing abilities.
Medical Opinions:
The Journal of American Medical Association in November 1998 (JAMA), wrote, “an advantage of acupuncture is that incidence of adverse effect is substantially lower than that associated with the use of many drugs or other accepted medical procedures used for the same conditions”. In the treatment of pain one can successfully avoid or reduce narcotic and addictive pain medications, with the use of acupuncture. Acupuncture induces brain’s endorphins, that reduce pain. Many centers nationwide have used acupuncture successfully in helping patients achieve sobriety from illicit drugs and alcohol.
Published in August 2000 issue of Archives of Internal Medicine, researchers from Yale University found that acupuncture was effective in treating drug addictions.
Acupuncture is widely used in Canada, South America, Britain, Germany, France, China, India, Japan and Australia.
Why is acupuncture not used widely in the USA?:
We in the USA have been led to believe that only expensive drugs or surgery “cure” health problems. Patients are left with bad side effects, and lifetime scars. No wonder that the USA leads the number of operation performed per year. Many drugs which were introduced in the past have been withdrawn after being marketed with great fanfare. (Redux for weight control, Rezulin for diabetes, and Propulsid for acid reflux} have been withdrawn from the market. Acupuncture has stood the test of time and cultures for 3000 years.
How many treatments would be needed?
The number of treatments needed differs from person-to-person and condition to condition. There are no set formulas. In acute pain, for example one may need fewer treatments then for chronic pain. Your treatments may need to be repeated.
Are there negative effects?
Not usually. Your original symptoms may increase for a day or two. Many times these indicate changes induced by treatment and indicate it is beginning work with your system. You may notice relaxation, sleepiness, fatigue, feel light headed, and even some headache. They tend to go away.
Is Acupuncture safe?
We use sterile, disposable, thin, non-cutting needles, that you can call “virtually painless”. They hurt far less than an injection needle. After insertion, pain usually goes away. You may still feel the presence of the needle.
What cautions should be observed?
For 24 hours before and after the treatment do not eat large meals. Rest well. Avoid alcohol. Some recommend no sexual activity for six hours after acupuncture. Take medications as prescribed. Do not drive vehicle or operate machinery if drowsy. Do not use illicit drugs.
Why should I go to doctors Dave?
Medical acupuncture is performed by a doctor trained and licensed in Western medicine. Dr. Daves are physicians, licensed in the state of Texas. They are certified by the highest qualifying agencies (Board certified) to practice their specialties. They trained with University of California at Los Angeles medical school – UCLA program in acupuncture. They use Western and Eastern approaches to help you.
Does insurance cover acupuncture?
Right now there is a signature collection in front of the President Obama about approving acupuncture through Medicare services. While Medicare has known for a long time that acupuncture is helpful in controlling and helping various medical conditions, they have routinely backed off from approving it under the pressure of politics of medicine. Some private insurances cover acupuncture.
What if I do not have insurance coverage?
Please call our office at 979-776-5600. After the medical or psychiatric evaluation, if acupuncture treatments are recommended, we charge $125 per visit. Usually 8 visits in the first 2-3 months will be needed. The frequency and length of treatments will vary depending on the problems addressed. For treatments of Addictions through Ear Acupuncture charge is $65 per visit for 10 visits. If addictions treatments require acupuncture on body the charge is $125 per visit.
