ACURA Acupuncture Clinic Newsletter September/November Issue
Preventing Illness Before It Begins
Health is one of the most crucial assets we possess. It’s vital to performing effectively in the workplace and succeeding in the business environment. Health, however, is also something we take for granted in our hectic lives, not realizing its importance until we are out-of-commission and suddenly struggling to fight our illness or ailment taking off from work, purchasing over-the-counter medications, scheduling doctor’s appointments, popping pills and stressing over recovery and lost time. Only then do we realize that an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. But how can we protect ourselves from getting sick in the first place?
In many cases, acupuncture is the answer. I know there are skeptics out there, but don’t stop reading yet! Too many people doubt that acupuncture works. Many quickly dismiss it as “alternative medicine” without giving it serious consideration. Others question its safety. Others have a fear of needles. Still others don’t know what it is. This column addresses all those topics.
Does acupuncture really work?
Yes. In fact, the World Health Organization recognizes acupuncture’s efficacy in all areas of the human body, among them, the gastro-intestinal, cardio-vascular, respiratory and genital-urinary systems. Acupuncture has also proven to be effective for women’s problems, pediatric disorders and work/sports-related injuries. If you are susceptible to or suffer from backaches, migraines, insomnia or exhaustion, then acupuncture can help. Please see www.acuraclinic.com for more information.
Isn’t acupuncture just another “alternative medicine?”
Acupuncture is not an “alternative medicine” to Japanese. Please keep in mind that “alternative medicine” is a broad term, used mainly by Westerners, to describe almost any medicine that falls outside of conventional Western medicine. “Alternative medicine” has existed in Japan for thousands of years. Before and during the Tokugawa Period, “alternative medicine” was known as “oriental medicine,” which is a complete system of healing used in Asia for more than 2,500 years. It includes the use of acupuncture, acupressure, herbal medicine, nutritional guidance and lifestyle counseling. It does not focus on a single symptom or specific illness. Rather, it concentrates on one's pattern of disease. The overall goal of the treatment is to restore the body to a balanced state, enabling the body to better heal itself. Oriental medicine, such as acupuncture, is rapidly gaining credibility in the West.
Is acupuncture safe?
Yes. Because the Japanese Ministry of Health mandates licenses in acupuncture, it is a regulated field of medicine. Anyone wanting to practice acupuncture is required, by law, to complete a 3-year program that covers a wide range of medical studies including pathology, anatomy and physiology. Upon graduation, they must pass a board examination in order to obtain a license.
Do acupuncture needles hurt?
In Japan, acupuncture needles are smaller than those in China. At ACURA Acupuncture Clinic, a single needle is 1-3 centimeters long with a diameter of 0.1 to 0.2 millimeters. Needles are thinner than a strand of human hair and are made of gold, silver or stainless steel. Needles come sterilized in a sealed package and are used one time only, then disposed of. They are inserted via a tube, and because they are so thin, the needles cannot tear blood vessels. This means: no bleeding. In fact, the procedure is nearly painless, and it is not uncommon for patients to fall asleep during treatment when under the care of an experienced practitioner.
What is acupuncture?
Acupuncture is the skillful placement of fine needles in specific points throughout the body. This stimulus directs the body to reduce pain and help normalize bodily functions.
Is acupuncture the answer for you?
Ultimately, that’s a question you have to answer for yourself. But as a 4th generation acupuncturist, I know from personal experience and the feedback of my patients that acupuncture does work in preventing and treating a variety of illnesses and ailments. With a reputation spanning thousands of years, acupuncture is difficult to dismiss as merely “alternative medicine.” It is safe, nearly pain-free, relaxing and it does not involve the use of drugs, which often have unwanted side effects. Acupuncture may very well be the answer you’re looking for. Please see www.acuraclinic.com for more information.
Taiken Jo is Director of Acura Acupuncture Clinic in Omotesando, Tokyo. He is a 4th-generation acupuncturist.
ACURA Acupuncture Clinic
-Relief can be immediate
-Individual Assessment
-Supportive rehabilitation
-Drug Free/Disposable needles
Fully accredited member, Japan Acupuncture Association
www.acuraclinic.com
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