Has Dr. Spiegel recommended acupuncture to help with a health problem you have? Acupuncture can be an important part of your health care, and has a long, rich history of healing.
Acupuncture is one part of Traditional Chinese Medicine, and it’s been used for more than 2,000 years. With a history that long, you can be sure that it works.
The original theory behind acupuncture was that the needles could manipulate the energy in your body, called qi, which flows along channels called meridians. If your qi was blocked in specific areas, certain ailments resulted.
Modern theory about acupuncture involves using the needles to stimulate nerves and soft tissues in your body to relieve pain and improve processes in your body. Whichever theory is most accurate doesn’t really matter as long as acupuncture effectively improves your outcome and you feel better.
You don’t need to do anything special before your acupuncture session. Unlike other types of procedures, you won’t need to stop eating at a certain time or skip your regular medications.
You should eat as you normally would and be well-hydrated the day of your appointment. Wear comfortable clothing, but expect that you may be asked to change into a gown or to be covered with a sheet.
Dr. Spiegel examines you first. He may look at your face and tongue, take your vital signs, and ask you a few questions.
If you’re unfamiliar with acupuncture, you may be imagining that the needles are the same kind you see when you have blood drawn or get a shot. They are not the same.
The needles used for acupuncture are usually very thin, sometimes the thickness of just a single human hair. They’re flexible and designed so that you feel little, if any, discomfort when they’re inserted.
Once the needles are inserted, Dr. Spiegel may manipulate them by turning them or otherwise adjusting them. He may also use additional therapies such as heat or gentle electrical stimulation.
You’re very likely to feel relaxed and soothed during your treatment, which generally lasts between 15 and 30 minutes.
After your acupuncture session, you may feel relaxed or energized. Most people report one or the other.
Acupuncture is effective in treating a number of conditions, but you shouldn’t expect immediate, miraculous results. You may need several treatments to reach your goal.
Since you’re a unique individual, your course of treatment will differ from anyone else’s. You may just need a few sessions to resolve your problem, or you may find that regular, ongoing acupuncture treatments can help you maintain your optimal level of health.
If you’d like to learn more about what kinds of conditions Dr. Spiegel treats using acupuncture, book an appointment with us at the Osteopathic Center for Healing using our handy online scheduler. Or you can give us a call and speak with our friendly office staff to make arrangements for your visit.
