Hangzhou Kezhentang TCM Clinic
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Acupuncture therapy

Appropriate TCM technical services · Provided within the approved scope of TCM department

What is acupuncture therapy?

Acupuncture is one of the core external treatment techniques in traditional Chinese medicine, which uses needles and moxibustion to stimulate specific acupoints on the human body, improving the constitution by unblocking meridians, harmonizing qi and blood, and balancing yin and yang. The operation is standardized by licensed TCM practitioners, using disposable sterile needles to ensure safety and hygiene.

Applicable Population and Common Symptoms

  • Neck, shoulder, waist, and leg pain: Cervical spondylosis, shoulder discomfort, lumbar muscle strain, degenerative changes in the knee joint
  • Head and facial discomfort: Headache (migraine, tension-type headache), facial palsy recovery period auxiliary adjustment
  • Digestive system: Functional dyspepsia, epigastric distension and pain, constipation, diarrhea
  • Gynecological related: Irregular menstruation, dysmenorrhea, premenstrual syndrome
  • Insomnia and anxiety: Difficulty falling asleep, frequent dreaming and waking up, emotional tension
  • Sub-health and obesity: People who hope to assist in weight management and improve metabolic status
  • Recovery period after a stroke: Auxiliary rehabilitation of limb function

Mechanism of Action

Cautery Moxibustion/ Salt Moxibustion: Ginger slices/salt are used as a medium and placed on the acupoints for moxibustion.

Treatment Method

  • The medicine liquid should be stored in the refrigerator, and it can be taken warm before consumption (do not reheat).

Precautions

  • Performed by licensed TCM practitioners within the approved scope of the TCM department
  • Acupuncture is not recommended during states of extreme hunger, overeating, or intoxication
  • Pregnant women and individuals with a tendency to bleed should inform the physician in advance
  • After acupuncture, some acupoints may experience mild soreness or swelling, which is a normal sensation
  • Acupuncture is a traditional TCM method of adjustment, and its specific effects may vary due to individual differences

The content above is for reference only, the specific treatment plan needs to be formulated after the TCM practitioner makes a diagnosis

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Common Questions

Compiled based on real medical consultation scenarios, please take the face-to-face diagnosis of a practicing Chinese medicine physician as the standard.

I am particularly afraid of needles. I get nervous as soon as I see a needle. Is acupuncture painful? Are there any less intimidating alternatives?

Modern acupuncture uses disposable sterile needles, which are typically only 0.2-0.3mm in diameter (much thinner than sewing needles), and the sensation upon insertion is more of a feeling of 'sour, numb, and distension' rather than piercing pain - this kind of sensation actually indicates that the acupoints are accurately selected and the Qi has been activated. If you are really nervous, you can communicate with the doctor to start with needle-free methods such as moxibustion, acupoint paste, and Tuina massage, and then transition to acupuncture after you get accustomed to it. Acupoint paste and ear acupoint pressing are both completely needle-free alternatives.

Is acupuncture for weight loss really effective? I want to lose weight around my abdomen and thighs.

Acupuncture can assist in weight management by regulating the appetite center, improving metabolism, and promoting local circulation, but the effect varies from person to person - it is not a 'lie-down and lose weight' wonder tool, and it needs to be combined with comprehensive treatment under the guidance of a diet adjustment and moderate exercise. Body acupuncture and ear acupoint pressing are the main methods. It is recommended to come to the clinic for a constitution identification first, and the practicing Chinese medicine doctor will formulate an individualized plan based on whether you are a phlegm-dampness type or a spleen and stomach deficiency type of obesity.

Is it normal for the acupoints to feel distended after acupuncture? How long will it last? Is there anything to be aware of?

Yes. This 'Qi sensation' (sour, numb, distension, heavy) is an important sign of the efficacy of acupuncture, indicating that the Qi has been activated. Generally, it will gradually subside within a few hours after acupuncture. If a certain acupoint continues to feel distended and painful, or if there is subcutaneous ecchymosis, there is no need to worry, as this is a normal reaction that occasionally occurs and will naturally subside within a few days. Avoid strenuous exercise and bathing on the day of acupuncture (at least 2 hours apart), and it is not advisable to have acupuncture after drinking alcohol.

Can acupuncture assist in the recovery from facial palsy? My friend's facial palsy was cured by acupuncture.

Acupuncture is one of the important auxiliary treatment methods for facial palsy (peripheral facial nerve palsy), especially in the recovery period, acupuncture at acupoints such as Diancang, Jiache, Hegu, etc., can help improve facial muscle function. However, facial palsy needs to be diagnosed first (to rule out central facial palsy such as stroke) - the treatment approach for central and peripheral facial palsy is completely different. It is recommended to go to the neurology department for a clear diagnosis first, and then have the practicing Chinese medicine doctor assess whether acupuncture treatment is suitable.

I want to try acupuncture but I have a fear of needles and blood. What should I do?

Needle phobia is actually very common, and many people have similar feelings of tension on their first visit. Suggestions: ① Do not go to the clinic on an empty stomach (hypoglycemia is more prone to needle phobia) ② Choose a lying position for the first time (lying down for acupuncture is less likely to cause dizziness) ③ Start with the acupoints at the ends of the limbs, gradually adapt, and do not start with the face right away ④ If you are really dizzy, you can communicate with the doctor to change to needle-free therapies such as moxibustion and acupoint paste as an alternative. Doctors have seen all kinds of needle fears, and there is no need to feel embarrassed.

The above Q&A is compiled based on common medical consultation scenarios.