Acupuncture is a 3000 year old medicine first recorded in China and is one aspect of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) or sometimes referred to as Oriental Medicine, which is a more broad term that also encompasses Japanese and Korean techniques as well. Acupuncture works by harmonizing the body’s functions and therefore promoting the natural self-healing process of the body.
This is done by stimulating specific acupuncture points, or “acupoints” that are chosen based on each individual patient’s Chinese medical diagnosis. The most common technique used to stimulate acupoints is the insertion of tiny, sterile, disposable needles into the skin. Pressure, heat, moxa, or electrical stimulation may further increase the effects. Other acupoint stimulation techniques include: manual bodywork, cupping, guasha, moxibustion or other heat therapy, and the application of topical herbal medicines and liniments.
The World Health Organization (WHO) recognizes these conditions and more to be proven through clinical trials to be effectively treated by acupuncture:
Make sure you eat a light meal 30 minutes to 1 hour before coming to your treatment.
Do not brush your tongue the morning of your treatment, as tongue observation is part of the diagnosis process.
Wear comfortable loose clothing.
Make sure to fill out your paperwork online in the email sent to you before your first treatment.
Your practitioner will conduct a full medical intake, including health history and all current symptoms you are experiencing. Your wrist pulses will be felt and your tongue will be observed as these are important tools in Oriental Medicine diagnosis. Frequently, it is necessary to palpate your abdomen or perform a musculoskeletal assessment, depending on the circumstances. An explanation of your individualized acupuncture and herbal medicine treatment plan will also be conducted at this time, including how many treatments it may take to improve your health concern. Any questions or concerns you have will be answered and addressed.
Your practitioner will have you lie on a massage table and will proceed with an acupuncture treatment. Measures will be taken for your relaxation and comfort, such as music, pillows for positioning, therapeutic heat, or whatever individual needs you may have. The needles will be gently inserted into specific acupuncture points, depending on your individual Chinese Medical diagnosis. Sometimes other modalities are used such as moxa, cupping, guasha, or body work depending on what is needed.
Once the needles are inserted and you are comfortable, your practitioner will leave the room and let you rest and relax. At this time your practitioner will make your customized herbal formula if appropriate. You will also receive any education needed for your condition as well as nutritional recommendations if desired. If you have booked a private treatment, you will receive an individualized treatment plan that explains your Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) diagnosis along with dietary and lifestyle suggestions to help you balance your pattern in order to promote health and prevent disease every day of your life.
The needles will then be removed and you will likely feel a deep sense of relaxation, clarity, well-being, or lightness. Instructions are given on how to prepare your customized herbal prescription and educational materials are reviewed. Any questions you may have will be answered. Follow-up appointments are made at the front desk.
Make sure to fill out your paperwork online in the email sent to you before your first treatment.
Flagstaff, a hub for professional and student athletes as well as weekend warriors, thrives on outdoor recreation. To enhance performance and enjoy every season outdoors, regular acupuncture is essential. It not only optimizes performance but also aids in injury prevention and recovery.
Acupuncture plays a crucial role right from the early stages of an injury by reducing pain and inflammation. It supports the healing of chronic injuries and post-surgical recovery. Moreover, as a preventative maintenance therapy, acupuncture helps avoid injuries, keeping you at your peak performance.
Milissa specializes in Balance Method Acupuncture, a superior technique for instant pain relief. This method focuses on myofascial meridians to improve mobility, range of motion, and performance without needling the painful area directly. Patients often experience immediate improvement during the session.
Beyond pain relief and mobility, Milissa provides holistic wellness support tailored to athletes’ unique needs. This may include dietary, lifestyle, and supplement recommendations to optimize body performance. Initial consultations include a Traditional Chinese Medicine differential diagnosis, with a treatment plan accessible in the patient portal.
Regular acupuncture sessions are recommended for ongoing health maintenance, with increased frequency as competitions or events approach. Acupuncture can address minor pains, support joint health, and enhance Qi flow for optimal balance and circulation. It also aids in achieving restful sleep before an event.
For athletes facing anxiety or nervousness before competitions, acupuncture offers calmness and emotional balance. It’s an approach that ensures you feel your best physically, mentally, and spiritually.
At Harmonizing Healthcare, we believe in treating the root cause of illness, not just the symptoms.