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Cement Floor

Traditional Acupuncture

Cement Floor

What is acupuncture?

Acupuncture is one of the primary components of traditional Chinese medicine and has been practiced for over 2,000 years. It involves the insertion of very thin, sterile, single-use filiform needles into specific points to initiate the body’s self-healing mechanism.
 
Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is centered on the concept that a vital energy or life force exists in all living things, from the tallest tree down to the smallest cell. This vital energy is called Qi (pronounced chee). Qi flows along various pathways in the body known as meridians. While these channels are separate from the nerves, blood vessels, and lymphatic ducts, they do correspond to the musculoskeletal system, nervous system, endocrine system, immune system, as well as various internal organ systems such as digestive, cardiovascular, respiratory, urinary, reproductive, to name a few.
 

When Qi is abundant and flowing smoothly, we’re balanced and thriving. We’re in harmony. This is the optimal state of health.
 
To support our essential bodily functions, however, we are constantly using and expending Qi on a daily basis. If we use our Qi supply up too quickly or if we’re faced with triggers like stress, poor diet, emotional issues, and environmental factors, the balance of Qi becomes disturbed and the flow of Qi can become stuck and stagnant. This can lead to pain, swelling, a buildup of toxins, and other symptoms. If left unaddressed, illness and full-on disease can ensue.

Luckily, we have acupuncture!


There are thousands of acupuncture points on the human body, all connected through the meridians. Acupuncture points are the specific spots where Qi converges and can be accessed. Acupuncture and traditional Chinese medicine are holistic, treating not only your symptoms but using various diagnostic techniques to identify the root cause of the symptoms as well as any potential patterns that may result in disease or illness. As such, acupuncture and traditional Chinese medicine can be very effective in treating not only pain but also stress, anxiety, and a host of internal medicine concerns. It is through the systematic diagnostic process of Chinese medicine that a combination of acupuncture points – also referred to as an acupuncture point prescription – is strategically constructed. Insertion of very fine acupuncture needles into these particular locations stimulates Qi, releasing blockages and restoring balance. As the body regains its natural flow, health and well-being return.

How does acupuncture work?

  1. Neurotransmitter release: Acupuncture in San Francisco stimulates the release of various neurotransmitters, such as endorphins and serotonin. These substances can act as natural painkillers, reduce inflammation, and promote feelings of well-being.
     

  2. Nerve stimulation: The insertion of acupuncture needles into specific points may stimulate sensory nerves, which can transmit signals to the brain and spinal cord. This stimulation may block pain signals and modulate other bodily functions.
     

  3. Nervous system modulation: Our San Francisco acupuncture treatments neuromodulate the nervous system by down-regulating the sympathetic nervous system and up-regulating the parasympathetic nervous system. When the body is in a parasympathetic dominant state, the body can heal and repair itself more readily.
     

  4. Blood flow and circulation: Acupuncture has been shown to affect blood flow and circulation in the body. It can increase blood flow to certain areas, promoting tissue healing and repair.
     

  5. Fascial response: Acupuncture also influences fascia and connective tissue, which is abundant throughout the body and plays a role in transmitting mechanical signals.

What are the benefits of acupuncture?

  1. Pain management: One of the most well-known uses of acupuncture in San Francisco is for pain relief. It is often used to alleviate chronic pain conditions such as back pain, neck pain, osteoarthritis, migraines, and menstrual cramps. Acupuncture stimulates the release of endorphins, which are natural painkillers produced by the body.
     

  2. Stress reduction: Acupuncture has been found to promote relaxation and reduce stress levels. It regulates the body's stress response by influencing the production of stress hormones like cortisol. Most patients find acupuncture sessions to be calming and soothing, which has a positive impact on overall well-being.
     

  3. Improved mental health: Acupuncture is used as a complementary therapy for mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, and insomnia. It stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system which contributes to the calm, relaxing feelings one feels during an acupuncture treatment.
     

  4. Enhanced sleep quality: Following our San Francisco acupuncture treatments, some individuals report improved sleep quality and duration following acupuncture treatments. Targeting specific acupuncture points can help regulate the body's circadian rhythm and promote relaxation, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep.
     

  5. Digestive health: Acupuncture has been used to address various digestive disorders, including irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), nausea, and vomiting. It may help regulate the gastrointestinal system and improve overall digestive function.
     

  6. Support for chemotherapy and other medical treatments: Acupuncture is used as a complementary therapy alongside conventional medical treatments such as chemotherapy. It can help alleviate treatment-related side effects like nausea, fatigue, pain, and hot flashes.
     

  7. Allergy relief: Some of our San Francisco acupuncture patients find relief from seasonal allergies or allergic rhinitis symptoms through acupuncture. It modulates the immune system and reduces inflammation, leading to reduced allergy symptoms.

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