What is Traditional Oriental Medicine (TOM)?
Also known as Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), traditional oriental medicine is a medical system that has been used for thousands of years to prevent, diagnose, and treat diseases.
It is based on the belief that qi (the body’s vital energy) flows along meridians (channels) in the body and keeps a person’s spiritual, emotional, mental, and physical health in balance.
Traditional oriental medicine aims to restore the body’s balance and harmony between the opposing natural forces of yin and yang, which can block qi and cause diseases. It focuses on maintaining the yin-yang balance to maintain health and prevent illness. Traditional Chinese medicine doctors look at the balance of body, mind, and spirit to determine how to restore qi, the yin-yang balance, and good health.
Source: National Cancer Institute and University of Michigan Health
Who can use traditional oriental medicine?
Using traditional oriental medicine is a personal decision. People use TOM for anything from carpal tunnel syndrome to lowering stress. Sometimes they use it along with western medicine. It may be a good choice if you:
- Have a lot of different symptoms with no clear cause
- Need to treat side effects from drugs
- Have tried western medicine but didn’t get results
- Want to prevent illness
Source: WebMD
Why should I see an acupuncturist?
Many patients prefer acupuncture treatments to find relief from a variety of physical conditions.
Some who are not suffering from ailments also seek treatment to optimize their wellness and maintain balance.
The main reason to begin acupuncture treatment is to cultivate vitality and radiant health, as well as to stimulate the tremendous healing power of the body, mind, and spirit.
Does acupuncture hurt?
Patients may feel a brief ache or heaviness in the area being needled with hair-thin needles. Some points are more sensitive than others. Usually, patients describe the sensations as fleeting and the treatment experience as deeply relaxing.
Are those needles safe?
Sterile disposable needles are used. They are used once and then disposed of immediately.
Do I have to be ill to benefit from acupuncture and TOM?
Absolutely not. Many patients come regularly to achieve increased effectiveness. Acupuncture and TOM, in general, can also be preventive measures to keep you healthy and joyful throughout your life.