About the Medicine

Acupuncture falls under the umbrella of a much larger system of medicine, called Traditional Chinese Medicine or TCM. TCM is a dynamic medicine that understands and works with the body to keep it strong and balanced. It includes treatment modalities such as acupuncture, herbal medicine, tai chi, tui na (a style of massage), and cupping. TCM has existed for thousands of years, and it continues today to treat modern health problems.

Acupuncture is an energy-based medicine. Energy flows in a network of channels, just like our blood flows in a network of vessels. There are certain places within that network where energy can be manipulated. We call these places acupuncture points. There are about 1,000 points throughout the body that perform very specific and powerful activities in the body. The acupuncture needle affects the way in which the energy flows, and can call upon the power of the point in order to improve health.

In western terms, acupuncture affects the central nervous system. When a needle is inserted, a cascade of chemical reactions occurs that can relieve pain, stress, regulate hormones, etc.

TCM is a great compliment to contemporary western medicine. Since TCM analyzes the body in a different way than western medicine, often patients who utilize both approaches can reap wonderful rewards.

The greatest advantage that TCM can offer people who live the busy East Bay lifestyle is its versatility! TCM is not only for people who suffer from chronic illness or a serious disease. It is for everyone at all stages of life and in different stages of health. Acupuncture and herbs can help prevent disease, maintain good health both physically and mentally, as well as treat many manifestations of disease and pain.

Whether you are a stressed out CEO of a household (aka, Mom), an overextended executive, an elite athlete, or a person blessed with many years of life with a body that now requires more maintenance, acupuncture is just what you need. Acupuncture works the same way in all people ~ it keeps a person’s energy (aka qi (chee) ), and blood moving. When we are in balance and our blood and energy are flowing correctly, our bodies feel good and our minds become calm and clear, resulting in an improved quality of life.