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frequently asked questions Initial phone consultation is FREE! Call 604.618.3111 to book your appointment with Dr. Caldwell. This may be the simplest most meaningful step you take towards a NEW LIFE, free from pain and suffering! call 604.618.3111 or email Dr. Harreson Caldwell	What is Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)? What Should I Expect On My First Visit? What Happens in Treatment? How Many Treatments Will I Need? What about Herbs? How does Acupuncture Work? Does it Hurt? Is it Safe? What Conditions Does it Treat? What is Moxibustion? What is Tuina? What is TCM?Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has been developed over 3,000 years and includes several modalities; they are all based on the theory of 14 meridians or pathways in the body in which "Qi" (pronounced "chee") or vital energy flows. In TCM, it is believed that ailments are caused by disturbances in the bodily flow of Qi. Practitioners of TCM work to regain the normal flow of Qi, thereby helping to restore health of the whole body. It is important to remember that TCM works to cure the cause of illness as opposed to treating only the symptoms. What Should I Expect On My First Visit?Your first complimentary visit to Caldwell Clinic will be approximately 45 minutes long while we review your medical history and recommend treatment(s). Since TCM takes a holistic approach, you may be asked questions that appear to be unrelated to the chief complaint, however these questions are vital for correct TCM diagnosis. We will examine your tongue and feel pulses on both wrists -- very important diagnostic tools to help us evaluate the state of your internal organ systems. Using all of the above information we will then determine the cause of your symptoms, and recommend follow-up treatments. Treatment visits are 50-60 minutes in length. Question: What is the procedure of treatment? What Happens in Treatment?During acupuncture treatments with Dr. Caldwell, the patient lies down in a private room. Selected acupuncture points are sterilized with alcoholized cotton. The needles (which are disposable, individually packaged and sterilized) are then inserted. The needles typically stay in place for at leat half an hour. For some conditions, however, they may be in place for only a few minutes or for up to an hour. Sometimes heat will be applied to further stimulate the acupuncture points. The moxibustion method or cupping can also be used in the combination with acupuncture treatment for some cases. How Many Treatments Will I Need? One course of treatment consists of anywhere from 5-15 sessions. The interval between courses is usually 5-7 days. The number and the duration of treatments will depend on the nature of the disease and whether herbs are also taken. Some cases may need only two or three treatments, while more chronic conditions can take considerably longer. The average number is probably between three and twelve sessions What about Herbs?Caldwell Clinic has an extensive pharmacy of Chinese herbs available in tablet and powder form. Herbal combinations area a major component of TCM and are prescribed according to complex rules of diagnoses, with the intent of correcting imbalances within the body. They are absolutely safe and reliable, and have no known side effects when accurately prescribed by qualified TCM practitiioners.How does Acupuncture Work? Acupuncture is a large part of TCM and involves the insertion of hair-thin needles at specific points along meridians to alter or enhance the flow of Qi.Scientifically, several theories have been presented as to exactly how acupuncture works. One suggests that pain impulses are blocked from reaching the spinal cord or brain.Another theory is that acupuncture stimulates the body to produce narcotic-like substances called endorphins, which reduce pain. Other studies have found that other relieving substances, called opiates, may be released into the body during an acupuncture treatment.Does it Hurt?No. Unlike hypodermic needles, acupuncture needles are solid and hair-thin. They are also inserted into less deep levels compared to hypodermic needles, generally no more than a half-inch depending on the treatment being delivered.While each person experiences acupuncture differently, most people feel only a slight pricking pain upon insertion of the needle. Some people have reported feeling a sensation of excitement, while others feel relaxed. If you experience significant pain from the treatment, it may be a sign that the procedure is being done improperly.Is it Safe?When practiced by a licensed, trained acupuncturist, acupuncture is an extremely safe and effective system of health care. Doctors of TCM have completed an eight year program of extensive clinical training, while registered acupuncturists complete a 3 or 4 year program. Acupuncture does no harm if properly administered. However, there are certain conditions in which acupuncture may not be the best option. For example, if you have a pacemaker, you should not receive electroacupuncture. Similarly, if you are a hemophiliac, you may want to consider other forms of health care.What Conditions Does it Treat?In the late 1970s, the World Health Organization recognised the ability of TCM to treat over 40 common ailments:·neuromuscular conditions (arthritis, neuralgia, insomnia, dizziness, neck/shoulder pain) ·circulatory disorders such as hypertension, angina pectoris, arteriosclerosis and anemia ·emotional and psychological disorders such as depression and anxiety ·addictions to alcohol, nicotine and other drugs ·respiratory disorders (emphysema, sinusitis, allergies and bronchitis) ·gastrointestinal conditions such as ulcers, chronic diarrhea, constipation, indigestion, intestinal weakness and gastritis. In 1997, a consensus statement released by the National Institutes of Health, found that acupuncture could be useful by itself or in combination with other therapies to treat addiction, headaches, menstrual cramps, tennis elbow, fibromyalgia, osteoarthritis, low back pain, carpal tunnel syndrome and asthma. What is Moxibustion?Moxibustion is a penetrating technique used by licensed acupuncturists and is performed by burning an herb called mugwort leaf directly above acupuncture points in order to direct or enhance the flow of Qi.What is Tuina Used For? Therapeutic massage is an integral part of our approach to holistic care. It may be advisable for patients with pain disorders to receive both acupuncture and massage therapy. 30 minute appointments specifically for Tuina massage are available upon request. 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