Acupuncture is one of the oldest, most commonly used medical procedures in the world.
THE DOCTOR
Dr. Meaghan has had an interested in health and healing from a young age. She pursued this with a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Guelph with a focus on human anatomy and physiology and nutrition. She continued her studies at the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine where she learned about acupuncture. There she pursued extra training in acupuncture with an emphasis on pain relief and stress reduction. She has also received extra training in cupping therapy.
What is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is a healing modality in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) -a system of medicine originating in China more than 3,000 years ago. It involves the insertion of extremely fine needles into the body at specific points in order to achieve a therapeutic effect and restore health. No drug is injected. The needles alone create the beneficial effects of acupuncture.
Acupuncture is used to encourage natural healing, improve mood and energy, reduce or relieve pain and improve function of affected areas of the body. It is safe, effective and the benefits are cumulative.
Acupuncture is presently recognized by WHO (World Health Organization) as effective in many areas such as relieving pain and enhancing overall wellness.
How Does It Work?
Acupuncture is based on the TCM theory that essential life energy called Qi (pronounced “Chi”) flows through the body along invisible channels called meridians, which have hundreds of interconnected acupuncture points. A disturbance in the flow of Qi due to an imbalance or can result in illness, pain, or a general lack of health.
Acupuncture needles stimulate specific points on meridians, causing Qi to flow to/from areas where it is deficient/in excess. In this way, acupuncture regulates and restores balance of the body naturally.
The Western scientific explanation for acupuncture is that it stimulates the release of pain relieving and regulatory chemicals needed for cellular repair and brings increased blood flow and oxygen to the area of concern. Thus, the improved biochemical balance produced by acupuncture promotes the body's natural healing abilities.
What are commonly seen conditions for Acupuncture treatment?
Acupuncture can be used for a variety of conditions.
- Muscle and joint pain/disorders (whiplash, repetitive strain injuries, tendonitis, sciatica, low back pain, arthritis)
- Neurological disorders (fibromyalgia, headaches, migraines, nerve pain)
- Stress disorders (insomnia, anxiety, low energy)
- Hormone balancing (irregular cycles, PMS, polycystic ovarian syndrome, endometriosis, menopause, hot flashes)
Does it hurt?
Unlike hypodermic needles, acupuncture needles are solid and as thin as hair. While each person experiences acupuncture differently, most people feel only a minimal amount of discomfort as the needles are inserted. Most reportedly feel a sensation of heaviness at the site of insertion while others feel a sense of relaxation.
At Gardiner Family Chiropractic, Dr. Shamira uses acupuncture as a treatment to help manage pain, stimulate or calm nerves, and to relax muscles and connective tissue.
Dr. Shamira uses both Eastern and Western styles of acupuncture to suit the nature of the condition. This pain-less and drug-less approach to bringing balance to the body is something everyone can benefit from.