ACUPUNCTURE
Acupuncture is one of the oldest, continually practiced forms of medicine in the world as well as being one of the most researched medical disciplines. Used for over 3,000 years, acupuncture has become well respected by both Eastern and Western physicians.
The process itself involves inserting sterile, non-toxic needles into the surface of the skin with the purpose of stimulating the flow of “qi”, a bioelectrical force, in your body. By assisting this flow of “qi,” acupuncture can help to relieve the stagnation of qi and blood. This stagnation is viewed as the primary cause of pain and disease in Chinese medical theory. With the use of acupuncture needles, the body’s flow of energy is enhanced and balance amongst the many organ systems is achieved.
Acupuncture is useful for acute and chronic diseases as well as for pain in patients of all ages. Many patients experience a sense of calmness and well being as acupuncture stimulates the release of endorphins in the brain. While we are always attempting to balance the body in the manner most needed, acupuncture has been used in the Western world for many health conditions such as insomnia, anxiety, depression, hypertension, arthritis, tendonitis, PMS, fatigue, asthma, allergies, menopausal symptoms, infertility, pain, indigestion, and for the relief of symptoms from colds and flu.
Dr. Angela combines her many years as a massage therapist with her acupuncture style to assist the body in balancing. In addition, she is trained extensively in the use of essential oils with acupuncture points and needles. For those who have an interest in this medicine but a fear of needles, this is a great way to begin receiving the benefits of acupuncture.
Moxibustion is a Chinese medicine technique that utilizes the herb mugwort. It is used to warm regions and acupuncture points with the intention of stimulating circulation through the points and inducing asmoother flow of blood and qi.Scientific research has shown that mugwort acts as an emmenagogue, meaning that it stimulates blood-flow in the pelvic area and uterus. Moxibustion can warm the body against cold and dampness and can turn breech babies.
Moxibustion is especially effective in the treatment of chronic problems, "deficient conditions" (weakness), and gerontology. Bian Que (fl. circa 500 BC), one of the most famous semi-legendary doctors of Chinese antiquity and thefirst specialist in moxibustion, believed the benefits of moxa were greater than those of acupuncture. He asserted that moxa could add new energy to the body and could treat both excess and deficient conditions.
Practitioners may use acupuncture needles made of various materials in combination with moxa, depending on the direction of qi flow they wish to stimulate. Dr. Angela frequently utilizes moxa in her treatments because of its positive effect on both pain relief and increasing energy.
Cupping, sometimes called fire cupping, is a method of applying acupressure by creating a vacuum next to the patient's skin. Throughout history, this treatment has included the use of glass, plastic, and bamboo cups, placed on the skin with a vacuum. Dr. Angela uses glass cups, which are specifically designed to create a solid connection to the skin. This therapy is used to treat back, neck, shoulder, and other musculoskeletal pain. It is also very effective in treating lung congestion from asthma or upper respiratory infections, including the common cold, pneumonia, and bronchitis.