Frequently Asked Questions
Acupuncture originated in China more than 2,000 years ago, making it one of the oldest and most commonly used medical procedures in the world.
Acupuncture became better known in the United States in 1971, when New York Times reporter James Reston wrote about how doctors in China used needles to ease his pain after surgery. American practices of acupuncture incorporate medical traditions from China, Japan, Korea, and other countries.
If you decide to use acupuncture, choose the practitioner with care. Also check with your insurer to see if the services will be covered.
What is acupuncture?
Acupuncture is a Chinese healing therapy that has been practiced over five centuries throughout Asia. In acupuncture very thin needles are inserted into specific points on the body’s surface in order to influence physiological functions of the body. Insertion and stimulation of the needles help restore and maintain the body’s natural healing ability.
Acupuncture is based on the ancient Chinese theory that there is a universal life energy called Qi or Chi in every living creature. This energy is said to circulate throughout the body along specific pathways called meridians. Qi flows freely through the meridians in a healthy body. When the flow of Qi is disrupted, it causes imbalance in the body and illness may occur.
Acupuncture points are believed to be located at specific locations where the meridians come to the surface of the skin and easily accessible by needles.
What are TCM, KM, and APM styles of acupuncture?
Kiiko Matsumoto Style Acupuncture (KM) was developed over the past two decades by world-renowned Japanese acupuncturist, Kiiko Matsumoto. KM style encompasses Kiiko’s clinical experience with some of Japan’s most respected acupuncturists. This style utilizes a systematic method of palpation (therapeutic touch) that is designed to provide instant feedback regarding the patients’ condition of health.
Acupuncture Physical Medicine (APM) is a modern approach to acupuncture that was developed by the Tri-State College of Acupuncture’s founder, Mark Seem, Ph.D. APM is rooted in Classical Chinese, French, and Japanese Meridian styles of acupuncture and incorporates “dry trigger point” needling inspired by the late Janet Travell, M.D. This style’s assessment of a patient focuses on palpation of “holding patterns” or myofascial constrictions in the body.
How does acupuncture work?
Is acupuncture safe?
- Have a bleeding disorder. Your chances of bleeding or bruising from the needles increase if you have a bleeding disorder or if you’re taking blood thinners.
- Have a pacemaker. Acupuncture that involves applying mild electrical pulses to the needles can interfere with a pacemaker’s operation.
- Are pregnant. Some types of acupuncture are thought to stimulate labor, which could result in a premature delivery.
What is Mei Zen Cosmetic Acupuncture?
What conditions are commonly treated with acupuncture?
(This is by no means a complete list of what Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine can treat.)
Musculoskeletal and Neurological Disorders
- Arthritis
- Neuralgia
- Sciatica
- Back Pain
- Bursitis
- Tendonitis
- Stiff Neck
- Bell’s Palsy
- Trigeminal Neuralgia
- Headaches and Migraines
- Stroke
- Cerebral Palsy
- Sprains
- Muscle Spasms
- Shingles
Eye, Ear, Nose, Throat Disorders
- Sinusitis
- Sore Throat
- Hay Fever
- Earache
- Nerve Deafness
- Ringing in the Ears
- Dizziness
- Poor Eyesight
Gastrointestinal Disorders
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome
- Spastic colon
- Colitis
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Food Allergies
- Ulcers
- Gastritis
- Abdominal Bloating
- Hemorrhoids
Gynecological / Genitourinary Disorders
- Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)
- Irregular, Heavy or Painful Menstruation
- Endometriosis
- Menopause
- Fibroids
- Chronic Bladder Infection
- Complications in Pregnancy
- Morning Sickness
- Impotence
- Infertility in Men and Women
- Sexual Dysfunction
Addiction
- Smoking Cessation
- Drugs
- Alcohol
Emotional and Psychological Disorders
- Anxiety
- Insomnia
- Depression
- Stress
Respiratory Disorders
- Asthma
- Emphysema
- Bronchitis
- Cold and Flu
Acupuncture Also Treats
- Chemotherapy/Radiation Side Effects
- Diabetes
- Dermatological Disorders
- Immune Disorders
- Weight Control