Acupuncture
cupuncture is the insertion of fine needles into the body at points shown as effective in the treatment of specific health problems. These points were mapped and studied by the Chinese for two thousand years. Recent electromagnetic research has confirmed their location.
Traditional acupuncture is based on ancient Chinese theories of the flow of Qi (Energy) and Xue (Blood) through distinct meridians or pathways that cover the body somewhat like nerves and blood vessels do. According to ancient theory, acupuncture allows Qi to flow to areas where it is deficient and away from where it is in excess. In this way, acupuncture regulates and restores the harmonious energetic balance of the body. In chinese there is a saying, “There is no pain if there is free flow; if there is pain, there is no free flow.”
Acupuncture originated in China but has spread to Korea, Japan, Vietnam, Europe, the British Isles, and America. In different countries, different styles have developed based on opinions as to theory and technique. It is helpful if you talk to your practitioner about their particular style to learn as much as possible about the treatment being proposed.
Due to HIV and Hepatitis, I use only disposable needles. I use traditional Chinese medicine in my practice. When the correct stimulus is obtained, the patient will feel a sensation of energy around the acupuncture point. In a healthy state the body is like a free-flowing river. After a storm (i.e. stress), debris might appear in the river. This interrupts the smooth flow of the water. If the stress continues, the water can actually dry up, and mud will form. In the philosophy of Oriental medicine, this stagnation can result in tumor formation. People come into my practice in all levels of this continuum. Treatment with acupuncture removes the debris, and allows the water or energy to once again flow freely.
I obtained my acupuncture license in the state of California in 1988 and have been certified by the National Commission for the Certification of Acupuncturists. 
