What is Traditional Chinese Medicine?
Traditional Chinese Medicine, or TCM, is one of the oldest and most popular forms of medicine in the world. It was developed by philosophers and scientists in China more than 2000 years ago. TCM includes acupuncture, the insertion of fine needles into specific locations on the body, and the use of herbs combined in what are termed formulas. Other forms of Traditional Chinese therapy include:Moxibustion: the application of heat to stimulate acupuncture points.
Cupping: the use of suctioning glass cups.
Tuina: a form of Chinese massage.
Qi Gong: classical movement exercises, similar to yoga, only slower and gentler.
Diet and Nutrition: the TCM model places great importance on our choices of food.Each method is similar in that their purpose is to restore harmony within the body, as most illnesses arise from an imbalance; energetically, physically, emotionally, or a combination of all three. My philosophy as a practitioner is to guide my patients towards optimum health, thereby allowing the body, one of the most fascinating and miraculous wonders I have ever encountered, to heal itself.
How does acupuncture work?
The Chinese Medical system is quite different than the Western style of medicine. In TCM theory, the body contains a series of interconnected networks of energy, termed meridians. These meridians run all over the body, transporting this vital energy (called "qi"), and also blood, to help nourish the body. Meridians are akin to rivers flowing throughout the body, and most of these meridians are associated with one of the major organs of the body. In certain locations, the qi of these meridians is more accessible by virtue of the pathway running closer to the surface of the body. Voila! These spots, roughly 400 in all, are acupuncture points. Disease is thought to arise from obstruction in these meridians. We insert needles into these points to regulate the passage of qi and blood through the meridians, ensuring that our organs and muscles are well-supplied with these vital substances.What does a typical treatment involve?
Treatments are based on a thorough examination of symptoms, a pulse and tongue examination, and medical and family history. Most people are surprised at how detailed this process can be in comparison to a typical visit with a Western medical doctor; even small or apparently insignificant factors unrelated to your primary complaint can be valuable to an acupuncturist. Usually, a pattern or patterns will emerge, which leads me to a TCM diagnosis. Acupuncture points applicable to each case are then selected, and any adjunct therapies (see above) are suggested and discussed. Disposable needles, thinner than the thinnest guitar string, and usually amounting to about a dozen, are inserted while you lie on a treatment table. Contrary to a common perception that the needles are inserted deep, most needles are relatively shallow, typically at a depth of a half an inch. Needles are then retained from anywhere between 10-30 minutes.Does Acupuncture Hurt?
Most people are delighted to discover how painless acupuncture can be. A better term of the feeling is simply a sensation; sometimes warmth, a deeper distention, and sometimes sensation far from the actual location of the needle. These are all desirable results, as it indicates to the practitioner that energy is moving, the points have been appropriately chosen and properly placed, and that the probability of achieving better results is higher. Another misconception is the notion that acupuncture needles are inserted into nerves. Actually, most acupuncture sites are in muscle, fascia, and connective tissue, and we stay clear of nerves. Most treatments illicit a state of relaxation, comfort, even sleep.What kinds of conditions can TCM treat?
TCM is a safe and effective method for treating a wide variety of medical conditions. Throughout its long history, the medicine has continued to evolve and grow. Western medical research has contributed greatly to our understanding of acupuncture in particular, and countless trials have been conducted showing its efficacy. It can be used not only for pain and injuries, but also for illness prevention, stress, and general maintenance of health. Some of the conditions commonly treated include:
Addictions Gynecological Disorders Allergies Headaches/Migraines Arthritis High Blood Pressure Asthma Infertility Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Insomnia Colds and Flu Menopause Depression, Anxiety Neck and Back Pain Digestive Disorders Sciatica Emotional Disorders Sports Injuries A list of common conditions treatable by Chinese Medicine and acupuncture has been compiled by The World Health Organization
About Paul Lee
Paul Lee graduated with Bachelor of Art degrees from the University of California, Santa Barbara, in Geography and Environmental Studies. Paul is an alumnus of Five Branches Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine in Santa Cruz, California. In addition, Paul completed his TCM internship in Hangzhou, People’s Republic of China. In his spare-time, he enjoys surfing, speed chess, playing violin, and chasing rabbits with his beagle.
Paul Lee
L.Ac., Dipl. Acu., MSTCM
(408) 446-8444
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