Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) originated in China over 4000 years ago.  The TCM philosophy believes there is an energy called Qi that circulates throughout the body along specific pathways called meridians. If this energy is in a balanced state in the body and flowing freely throughout the meridians, health is maintained.  If the flow of energy is blocked or disrupted, pain, illness and disease occur.  Acupuncture works to restore the balance of energy and free the flow of Qi, by using specific combinations of acupuncture points. Treatment involves the insertion of very fine sterilized needles, disposable and never re-used, into the skin at various acupuncture points.  The needles are left in place for only a few minutes or up to 40 minutes.  Other techniques used by a practitioner include, electro-acupuncture, moxibustion, acupressure, massage, laser, nutrition, herbs, meditation and exercise.

Acupuncturists will listen carefully to your health history and symptoms, feel subtle variations in your pulses on your wrist, and look at the condition of your tongue, overall appearance of your face, muscles, skin and emotional state.  These are all important indicators of your condition which provide vital clues to an overall pattern of health or disease.

Acupuncture Augusta treats neurological, musculoskeletal, gastrointestinal, ear, nose and throat, respiratory, gynecological, circulatory, urogenital and psychoemotional disorders. Other benefits include: increase in vitality and energy, stress reduction, deep relaxation, weight control, stopping of smoking, alcohol, drug & other addictions, enhanced athletic & physical performance, pain control and many other benefits.

Visit www.acupuncture.com to learn more about acupuncture, and review acupuncture information from the NIH at  http://nccam.nih.gov/health/acupuncture/