WHAT IS ACUPUNCTURE? Acupuncture is both an art and a science based on an ancient healing system that helps the body promote natural healing. It has been used in Asia for over 2500 years, and its use has grown dramatically in the United States. HOW DOES ACUPUNCTURE WORK? Acupuncture treatment is based on a holistic view that the body has the ability to return to its balanced state of health. The basic theory of acupuncture involves Yin, Yang and Qi. Qi flows through pathways in the body, these pathways are called meridians. Harmony and good health occur when Yin and Yang are perfectly balanced and Qi is able to circulate smoothly in the body. Acupuncture treatment involves inserting needles at specific acupuncture points along the meridians to balance Yin and Yang and regulate the flow of Qi. Sometimes the needles are twirled, given a slight electrical charge (electroacupuncture) or warmed (moxabustion). DOES ACUPUNCTURE HURT? Acupuncture treatment involves inserting hair thin, sterile, single use needles at specific points along the meridians to restore balance in the body. The depth of insertion depends on the part of the body that is being treated. Some patients may feel a tingling sensation around the needle, or possibly a warm or heavy feeling around the needle. If there is a sense of discomfort, it is usually mild and lasts a short time. ARE THE NEEDLES CLEAN? Yes, the acupuncture needles used are sterilized and individually packaged, and are disposable. HOW MANY TREATMENTS WILL I NEED? This depends on the severity, duration and nature of the problem. Generally, acute problems require fewer treatments then chronic problems. The frequency and number of treatments are discussed during the initial consultation and adjusted to meet the individual needs of the patient. CAN CHILDREN BE TREATED WITH ACUPUNCTURE? There are several different methods used to treat children, these may include acupuncture where the needle is inserted for only a moment, Shonishin where small instruments are used to stimulate various acupuncture points and meridians on the surface of the child's skin, and Chinese pediatric massage. All of these methods, used individually or in combination are very effective in treating children. WHAT IS CHINESE HERBAL MEDICINE? Chinese herbal medicine is a body of knowledge that has been accumulated over thousands of years. The medicinal substances are found in nature and include hundreds of varieties of roots, stem, leaves and flowers of plants. Mineral and animal substances may also be used. Formulas may include 2-30 different combinations of herbs. These formulas are very specific in their use and are modified to treat each individual patient's condition and constitution. The formulas are taken as tinctures, pills, capsules, granules or teas. DO ALL HERBS COME FROM CHINA? No, herbs from all over the world have been incorporated into the Chinese material medica. Herbs that are prescribed based on the principle of Chinese herbal medicine are considered ÒChinese herbsÓ but can be from a variety of sources. There has been a growing global movement among growers/farmers to cultivate organic herbs to be used in Traditional Chinese Medicine formulas. CAN CHILDREN TAKE CHINESE HERBAL MEDICINE? Pediatrics is a specialty within Chinese medicine, and children are given reduced dosages. There are specially prepared formulations for children in the form of tinctures that are easily administered. Chinese herbal medicine can treat a wide variety of childhood ailments.

Martha von Bujdoss LAc, OTR/L, MS OFFICE LOCATION: 1 Union Square West, Suite 914 (corner of University Place and 14th Street) New York, NY 10003 (917) 847-4142 E-mail me at: martha@equalnature.com