A Brief Overview of Acupuncture
Acupuncture is a facet of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), a complete medical system developed over 2000 years ago. TCM uses two key concepts as the core foundation of its medical theory:
The qi of the body can be accessed at points located along meridians of energy located throughout the body. During the course of our lives, illnesses, improper diet, physical and emotional trauma, stress and fatigue can create imbalances in our bodies and in these channels. Energy can become either insufficient or blocked in various places, thereby impairing the functioning of the qi and creating health problems. 
From a Chinese perspective, acupuncture restores order and harmony to the body’s energy, thereby improving its ability to function properly on its own. By repeatedly reminding the body of the way in which it was designed to function, it is possible to reprogram the body to work in a more balanced, healthy way. I often compare it to trying to make a new path through a field of tall grass. The more times one walks the same route, the more of a true path it becomes.
Recent research done using Functional MRIs, 3D in-line imaging and oxygen micro sensors are demonstrating what acupuncturists have known for millennia - acupuncture has profound effects on the body because acupoints are different from other places on the body. All parts of the nervous system, as well as the endocrine system, (responsible for hormone regulation in the body) are affected by acupuncture. Many people feel relaxed, a decrease in the symptoms of stress or a sense of well-being after acupuncture. I am providing links to some of the current research below. Check back for my new blog (coming soon) for more research and discussion on the benefits of acupuncture! http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3677642/ http://aim.bmj.com/content/33/1.toc http://online.liebertpub.com/doi/abs/10.1089/acm.2015.0151 http://www.hindawi.com/journals/ecam/2014/609594/ref/ http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0165183899000909 http://online.liebertpub.com/doi/10.1089/acm.2015.0024 |
I had chronic sinus headaches and post-nasal drip for years - I noticed improvement after one treatment, and haven't had a headache in months. Over 15 weeks Tracey was able to stabilize my symptoms of fatigue, frequency, control and pain through weekly acupuncture treatments and a steadfast herbal regimen. I always felt genuinely safe, cared for and supported while in her hands. I cannot imagine going through chemo without her. After a mere 5 months of acupuncture and herbal teas customized for my conditions, I found myself pregnant, and I write this testimonial as I gaze at my beautiful Violet. Since being treated by Tracey Steady my periods are every 28 days and my flow is the lightest and most manageable that it has ever been! |
