Acupuncture

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Acupuncture in St Louis

How Does Acupuncture Work?.

 

Acupuncture is the stimulation of specific points located near or on the surface of the skin which have the ability to alter various biochemical and physiological conditions in order to achieve the desired effect.

 

Eastern Perspective

The Eastern Explanation for how acupuncture works is that the life energy flowing through the body which is termed Qi (pronounced chee) can be influenced and balanced by stimulating specific points on the body. These points are located along channels of energy known as meridians that connect all of our major organs. According to Chinese medical theory, illness arises when the cyclical flow of Qi in the meridians becomes unbalanced or is blocked.

Western Perspective

A migraine headache is a form of vascular headache. Migraine headache is caused by enlargement of blood vessels that causes the release of chemicals from nerve fibers that coil around the large arteries of the brain. Enlargement of these blood vessels stretches the nerves that coil around them and causes the nerves to release chemicals. The chemicals cause inflammation, pain, and further enlargement of the artery. The increasing enlargement of the arteries magnifies the pain.

The Major Benefits of Acupuncture:

  • Drug-free pain relief
  • Assists prevention against disease
  • Effectively treats many common ailments
  • Treats the cause as well as the symptoms
  • Holistic approach to illness, linking body, mind and emotions
  • Inflammation reduction
  • Pain reduction
  • Eliminate muscle spasms

Common Conditions Acupuncture Can Help:

  • Stomach Ulcers
  • Allergies/Sinus Problems
  • Irritability and Moodiness
  • Menopause
  • Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
  • Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome
  • PMS
  • Overactive Bladder (Incontinence)
  • Smoking Cessation
  • Heart Problems
  • Kidney Problems
  • Endometriosis and Fibroids
  • Neck Pain and Headaches
  • Back Pain
  • Sports Injuries
  • Arm and Shoulder Pain
  • ADD/ADHD
  • Blood Pressure Problems
  • Overactive Bladder (Incontinence)
  • Bedwetting
  • Indigestion/Stomach Problems
  • Shingles
  • Lung conditions (asthma, etc.)
  • Bursitis
  • Colds
  • Constipation/Diarrhea
  • Disc Problems/Sciatica
  • Chronic Fatigue
  • Diverticulitis
  • Fibromyalgia
  • Gall Bladder Disorders
  • Joint Pain
  • Whiplash

The list of things that acupuncture is successful with is endless. Eastern medicine is not concerned with diagnosis of medical conditions as we know them. An acupuncturist diagnoses the energy imbalances in the body, balances the energy and unlocks the body’s own innate healing powers.

 

Stop Smoking with Acupuncture

Among current U.S. adult smokers, 70% report that they want to quit smoking and millions try to quit every year. If you have attempted to quit smoking, you know how difficult it can be. Nicotine is a powerful addiction. In fact, research suggests that nicotine is as addictive as heroin, cocaine, or alcohol.

 

It is estimated that most smokers will attempt to quit two or three times, or more, before finally kicking the habit. When conventional methods to quit smoking have failed, smokers often look outside mainstream approaches and turn to alternative medicine. Acupuncture as an alternative approach to smoking cessation has a growing number of converts. In fact, acupuncture is often a court mandated treatment for drug addicts because of its ability to reduce cravings and alleviate withdrawal symptoms such as irritability, anxiety and difficulty concentrating.

 

Aging

There is a recent surge among middle-aged Americans wanting to maintain a younger look. Acupuncture is gaining popularity as an alternative method to surgery, laser/chemical peels, botox, restyline, radiance and collagen injections. Fine acupuncture needles are placed at empirical points on the face and result in increased local production of collagen, thereby tightening the existing fibers. Facial tissue is left more supple and smooth, and lines are minimized.

 

Acupuncture Treatment Protocol: A normal course of treatment includes ten sessions per facial area. Sessions are held between one and three times per week. Results can last anywhere from three to five years.

 

Acupuncture’s unique potential: While not a replacement for surgery, Cosmetic Acupuncture in St Louis is an excellent alternative. It is far less costly than cosmetic surgery. It is also safe, as it requires no drugs or injections and produces minimal side effects. There is a slight risk of temporary local bruising, which should disappear within three to seven days.

 

Contraindications: Some patients are not candidates for facial rejuvenation, including persons with pacemakers, bleeding disorders, pregnancy and some pituitary disorders.

 

Benefits of Cosmetic Acupuncture:

  • Minimizes Deep and Fine Lines
  • Reduces Puffiness by Eliminating Excess Fluids
  • Stimulates Blood and Lymph Circulation
  • Improves Facial Glow and Sheen
  • Promotes Overall Health and Well Being
  • Improves Facial Glow and Sheen
  • Shrinks Age Spots
  • increases Collagen Production
  • Firms Facial Muscles
  • Raises Drooping Eyelids
  • Moderates Stress Evident in the Face
  • Tightens and Lessens Bags Around the Eyes

 

Treating Seasonal Allergies with Acupuncture

When treating with acupuncture, underlying imbalances within the body are addressed and a treatment plan is developed to relieve the acute symptoms of allergic rhinitis while also treating the root problems that are contributing to the body’s reaction to allergens. Treatments often include dietary modification, the use of specifically chosen herbal formulas, and acupuncture.

 

Acupuncture for Asthma in St Louis

At its core, asthma is an immune disorder. The main symptoms of asthma, wheezing and shortness of breath, are manifestations of the body’s immune response to pathogens found in the environment. Our experience has shown us that in the majority of asthma cases, the patient has an imbalanced immune system. Thus, our treatments focus on balancing and strengthening the immune system. Many patients report significant, lasting benefits in just a few sessions of treatment

Acupuncture has also been shown to have beneficial effects on the primary symptoms of asthma. It can improve pulmonary function and lessen the severity of asthma attacks.

 

Are you seeking natural healing through holistic methods such as acupuncture in St. Louis?

Dr. Sean Branham is well versed in the intricacies and mechanics of acupuncture. As a doctor in St. Louis, he has developed systems to provide you with acupuncture therapy.