Acupuncture & Chinese Medicine

At Peninsula Acupuncture and Natural Medicine we have a special interest in a wide range of conditions including -

If you have any of these conditions we encourage you to contact us to discuss how we can assist you!

 

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Frequently Asked Questions about Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine

What is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is an one of the 5 branches of Traditional Chinese Medicine that has existed for over 2000 years - the other branches include Herbal Medicine, Tuina Massage, Chinese Diet Therapy and Moxibustion.

Acupuncture involves the insertion of hair like needles into prescribed acupoints proven to be effective in treating a broad range of health conditions.

How Does Acupuncture work?

Western medical theory believes that Acupuncture creates a number of changes within the body - it is known to increase blood circulation, release neurohormones key in relaxation and stress relief, increase white blood cell counts key in immune function, increase levels of Endorphins (bodies natural pain killer), increase blood flow to the area by creating a histamine reaction (used to treat musculoskeletal pain both acute and chronic) and is also able to block synapse signals to the brain through the Gate Control Theory (outcompeting pain signals hence blocking pain sensation) and is thus useful in pain control and ongoing pain management.

Chinese Medicine theory is that of the Meridian Theory involving the bodies energy - Qi (pronounced chi) and Blood. The Meridian theory involves a network of channels that link the body as a whole entity carrying the Qi and Blood within it. By using acupoints on these meridians Acupuncture can regulate the flow of Qi and restore the harmonious balance of the Meridian system.

What are the benefits of Chinese medicine?

As a natural form of healing, acupuncture has the following benefits:

  • Provides drug-free pain relief,
  • Effectively treats a wide range of acute and chronic ailments,
  • Treats the underlying cause of disease and illness as well as the symptoms,
  • Provides a holistic approach to the treatment of disease and illness, linking body, mind and emotions,
  • Assists in the prevention against disease and illness as well as the maintenance of general well-being.

Chinese herbal medicine also takes a holistic approach to understanding normal function and disease processes and focuses as much on the prevention of illness as on the treatment. Most diseases or illnesses present with a core set of recognisable signs and symptoms, but the actual presentation of a particular disease or illness will vary from person to person. For this reason, people with similar health conditions may be provided with quite different Chinese herbal medicine prescriptions. If required a Chinese herbal formula that specifically matches and treats your individual health problem will be formulated. As your condition changes and improves with treatment, the Chinese herbal treatment is also adjusted and modified until the desired health outcome is achieved.

Does Acupuncture hurt?

Acupuncture carries the stigma of a painful treatment, however most patients discover that acupuncture is quite a relaxing and enjoyable experience. The needles used are single use needles and are the width of a human hair and for this reason very little pain is noticed and no bleeding is usually apparent. Most patients notice a grabbing or slight tingling sensation, followed by warmth around the surrounding area with relaxation. Post treatment patients typically feel quite lethargic and relaxed.

How many treatments will I need?

This varies widely, depending on the duration, severity and nature of your health concern. An acute condition may resolve within a few treatments, with chronic problems being treated or managed over a longer period of time. It is best to schedule once or twice a week to begin with to gauge the effectiveness for you. Some conditions need continued treatment on a weekly, bi-weekly or monthly basis. The benefits of treatment are cumulative and once patients feel better they come less frequently to maintain the results.

Does insurance cover the treatment?

Yes, different health funds cover varying amounts for treatments. We are registered with the major health funds and have an HICAPS facility to claim your rebate at the time of your treatment.