What is acupuncture?
According to Traditional Chinese Medicine theory blockages of energy (Qi) flow, or imbalances in the body, are the root of all disease. Acupuncture has been used successfully for over 3000 years to correct these imbalances through the insertion of hair-fine needles into specific points on the skin.
What conditions can be treated by acupuncture?
Acupuncture has been used as part of a primary health care system in China for thousands of years and, because of it’s proven effectiveness, has been increasingly accepted in the west. The following are a just a few of the common conditions that benefit from regular acupuncture treatments.
allergies
anxiety/depression
bell’s palsy
cold/flu
chronic fatigue/fibromyalgia
digestive problems
high blood pressure
infertility
insomnia
menopause
menstrual pain and/or irregularities
pain – acute or chronic
PMS
sciatica
skin problems
stress
For questions about specific conditions, please e-mail me at heather@heatherbrookman.com or call me at 702-475-5995 (Skype).
Does acupuncture hurt?
When acupuncture needles are inserted most people feel a slight tap followed by pressure, warmth, or tingling sensation. If there is discomfort, it is generally no worse than a mosquito bite and short in duration. Overall, patients usually find their treatments to be extremely relaxing.
Is acupuncture safe?
Acupuncture is very safe when performed by a well trained licensed professional and there are generally no adverse side effects. Additionally, I only use sterile, single use, stainless steel needles, which are inserted after disinfecting the skin with alcohol.
How many treatments will I need?
Each person and each condition will need a different number of treatments. The more severe and chronic the condition is the more care will be needed. For most patients, I recommend 5-10 consecutive treatments, after which there will be a re-evaluation and development of a treatment plan that suits the patients individual needs.
What is a treatment like?
During the initial treatment there will be an in depth discussion of the patients health history as well as a physical exam including pulse and tongue diagnosis. Although most treatments are given on a massage table, I try to accommodate each patient’s positioning needs whenever possible. Once the needles are in place, they are retained for 20-30 minutes.
Come dressed in loosely fitting, comfortable clothing; gowns can be provided as necessary. Be sure to be well hydrated and eat a small meal 1-2 hours before arrival.
Do you prescribe herbs?
When appropriate, I do make recommendations.
What happens after treatment?
Generally, after treatment, patients feel relaxed and a general sense of well-being. It is best to not schedule any rigorous activity for up to 6 hours after a session. Additionally, patients should take the time to eat nourishing food and drink plenty of water.
Is acupuncture safe during pregnancy?
Yes. In fact acupuncture can be used to treat mild-moderate morning sickness, acid reflux, and a number of other discomforts associated with pregnancy. For those moms-to-be experiencing any complications, clearance from their chosen care provider should be obtained before undergoing acupuncture treatment.
