Discover Acupuncture Benefits with Dr. Sam Henley

Acupuncture

Acupuncture is the use of a variety of physical techniques to stimulate the body’s own healing potential. It is a part of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM): a system that includes herbal medicine, therapeutic massage, and exercise (tai chi, qi gong, etc).

Acupuncture uses the concept of Qi (“chee”, the various expressions of energy in nature) to understand, diagnose and treat the individual. Its concepts of anatomy and physiology differ from those of Western biomedicine and cannot be simply translated. With this system, a person’s physical body, psychological state and spirit are viewed as an interrelated whole.

Acupuncture is highly regarded in the U.S. and around the world. It is increasing in popularity as a complementary form of treatment for a number of conditions due to its natural nature, relatively low cost and non-invasive methods.

For what Conditions is Acupuncture Effective?

Dr. Sam Henley offers acupuncture in Columbia, MO for a variety of different conditions:

• Low Back Pain
• Neck Pain
• Osteoarthritis/Knee Pain
• Asthma
• Bronchitis
• Sinusitis
• Spastic Colon
• Stroke Rehabilitation
• Quitting Smoking
• Urinary Problems

• Diarrhea
• Headaches
• Migraines
• Irregular Periods
• Menopausal Symptoms
• Menstrual Cramps

For what Conditions is Acupuncture Effective?

Acupuncture and other types of TCM have been used and trusted by practitioners for thousands of years. The earliest possible records of acupuncture treatment were dated back to 6000 BCE.

Although trusted as a healing practice since ancient times, in the past 60 years alone, the Chinese government has backed millions of dollars in research to study the results of acupuncture as a method of treatment.

These studies and others like them showed a clear link between acupuncture and symptom relief for a number of treatable conditions. The World Health Organization (WHO) currently endorses acupuncture as a treatment method for more than 40 health conditions.

Is Acupuncture Safe?

Acupuncture is safe and effective when performed by an experienced practitioner. Acupuncture has very few side effects or potential complications when performed properly. Dr. Sam is well-trained to safely perform acupuncture using only sterile needles and gentle, researched techniques to help you achieve the relief you’re looking for. Read reviews of Dr. Sam’s treatment methods here.

Unlike other forms of modern medicine, acupuncture stimulates the body’s natural ability to heal itself to stop and reverse the progression of certain health conditions. It is often considered safer than other common pain treatment methods because of its non-invasive process and lack of harsh side effects.

How Does Acupuncture Work?

There are several different theories about what specifically makes acupuncture effective. Some of the most common reasons people cite for why acupuncture works include:
• It stimulates the body’s ability to reduce inflammation
• It stimulates the release of endorphins, which are the body’s natural pain relievers
• It stimulates the body to improve circulation
• It stimulates and strengthens electrical currents in the body

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Understanding the Principles of Acupuncture

Acupuncture is rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), which emphasizes the balance of Qi, or life energy, within the body. This ancient practice involves the insertion of fine needles at specific points to stimulate the body's natural healing processes. By restoring the flow of Qi, acupuncture aims to harmonize physical, emotional, and spiritual health, offering a holistic approach to wellness.

In TCM, the body is viewed as an interconnected system where physical ailments may stem from emotional or spiritual imbalances. For instance, stress can manifest as physical pain, and acupuncture addresses these root causes. This comprehensive understanding of health not only guides treatment but also empowers patients to take an active role in their healing journey.

Benefits of Acupuncture for Chronic Conditions

Acupuncture has been shown to be particularly effective for managing chronic conditions such as low back pain, migraines, and arthritis. Many patients report significant relief from symptoms after just a few sessions, making acupuncture a valuable alternative or complement to conventional treatments. The therapy not only alleviates pain but also enhances overall well-being.

Research has demonstrated that acupuncture can improve quality of life by reducing the frequency and intensity of chronic pain episodes. For example, studies indicate that individuals suffering from migraines experience fewer attacks and reduced severity when treated with acupuncture. This evidence supports the use of acupuncture as a safe and effective treatment option for those seeking relief from chronic health issues.

What to Expect During Your Acupuncture Session

During your first acupuncture session, Dr. Sam Henley will conduct a thorough assessment to understand your health history and specific concerns. This personalized approach ensures that the treatment plan is tailored to your unique needs. Patients can expect to discuss their symptoms, lifestyle, and any previous treatments they have tried.

Once the assessment is complete, the actual acupuncture treatment typically lasts between 30 to 60 minutes. Patients lie comfortably while the needles are inserted at designated points. Many report feeling relaxed during the session, with some even falling asleep. Post-treatment, it is common to feel a sense of calm and relief, often accompanied by improved energy levels and mood.

Frequently Asked Questions about Acupuncture

Many potential patients have questions about the safety, effectiveness, and process of acupuncture. Common inquiries include whether acupuncture is painful, how many sessions are needed, and what to expect in terms of results. Addressing these questions helps demystify the treatment and encourages individuals to consider acupuncture as a viable option for their health concerns.

For instance, it is important to note that while some patients may feel a slight pinch during needle insertion, most report minimal discomfort. The number of sessions required varies depending on the individual and their specific condition, but many find that a series of treatments yields the best results. By providing clear answers to these FAQs, we aim to empower patients with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions about their health.