Acupuncture

Acupuncture

Just like the vascular system, nervous system, and lymphatic system run through the body to connect its different parts, there is also a meridian system that circulates and carries Qi. As discussed in the theory section, Qi is the component of life that animates and energizes the otherwise dead matter that we call our body. The meridians, also refered to as channels and collaterals, are associated with the six main organs pairs of the body (Liver/Gallbladder, Heart/Small Intestine, Pericardium/Tripple Warmer, Spleen/Stomach, Lung/Large Intestine, and Kidney/Bladder). There are also three other pathways that are not associated with organs. All of these channels have their own acupoints which are like gates that activate the Qi of the meridian and the organ system involved. These points have specific actions, indications, and combinations, that treat various imbalances. While a typical chart of the acupuncture channels illustrates only the superficial pathways, it is important to remember that the channel network is much more complex than this, and there is no part of the body, no kind of tissue, no single cell, that is not supplied by the channels.

Acupuncture points are located by the practitioner using light palpation to find the tender or sensitive spots. While texts describe these points in minute detail based on the anatomical structure of the surrounding area, each person has a different shape, size, and constitution, so the points must be carefully specified for each individual. Acupuncture needles are sterile, individually packaged, and used only once. They are about the width of a cat whisker and are not hollow like a hypodermic needle. There is a slight sensation like a light prick when the needle is inserted but the sensation that shows that the Qi has been activated comes after a few seconds, when there is another feeling. This feeling is described by people as a dull ache, slight pressure, tingling sensation, or heaviness. There is no pain involved, and most people report and light and relaxed feeling once the needles are in.

Qi can also activated and balanced using massage forms like Shiatsu (from Japan) and Tuina (from China). These are two other techniques that Sarah uses as a part of her treatments that are also based on the meridian system.

Currently studying the effects of acupuncture on the symptoms of Chronic Lyme Disease, Sarah has decided to focus her work here in the North East where the epidemic is spreading rapidly. At the same time, Sarah continues a general practice treating acute and chronic conditions including but not limited to the following systems and their imbalances: