What is Acupuncture?
traditional acupuncture (Japanese & Chinese) - motor point needling - intramuscular stimulation (IMS) - dry needling
-scalp acupuncture-
Acupuncture is an ancient technique used for the prevention and treatment of many medical problems. It involves the insertion of tiny, sterile needles into specific points on the body. Its effectiveness has been evidenced by its use in the treatment of many serious diseases for thousands of years in China and by modern clinical research. Modern studies have helped to clarify some of the mechanisms by which acupuncture works within the framework of western medicine.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, there is an intricate web of energetic pathways mapped by the ancient Chinese throughout the body known as ‘meridians’. Acupuncture stimulation activates measurable electrical charges along these meridians. In addition, it has been observed that acupuncture stimulation activates the release of chemicals in muscles, the spinal cord, and the brain. In this way, acupuncture can be used to manipulate the balance of chemicals and hormones in the body to help its own defenses work faster and more effectively. Modern imaging techniques have also shown that acupuncture can increase blood flow to targeted parts of the body.
Acupuncturists note the complex pattern of clues scattered through the human body, taking into account that each case is unique and each patient needs a personalized treatment plan. This plan focuses on improving the overall well being of the patient, rather than the isolated treatment of specific symptoms or disease. The techniques that I use combine the knowledge and techniques passed down through thousands of years of Chinese medical practitioners with modern techniques, experience, and research.
The art of acupuncture is an ever evolving practice. Acupuncturists in BC are required to complete a minimum of 2 years of university as an entrance requirement in any acupuncture and TCM program. Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine schooling is between 4 to 5 years of full-time schooling, covering western sciences and traditional theories and techniques. Acupuncture is a regulated health profession and acupuncturists are required to pass licensing exams in order to practice.
I have a special interest in treating pain and injuries, as well as infertility and other reproductive system concerns. In addition to graduating from a four year program, I have done extensive post graduate training in anatomical based needling styles (such as motor point acupuncture & sport medicine acupuncture), acupuncture in pregnancy and during labor, and acupuncture for fertility.
Motor point acupuncture, dry needling and intramuscular stimulation (IMS)
When a muscle is sore, over strained or painful, there are often tight palpable knots within it. These points can refer to other areas of the body and are called trigger points. Motor points are similar to trigger points but tend to contain a larger concentration of nerve endings and are more electrically excitable. Motor points are specific anatomical points at neuromuscular junctions. ( Matt Callison, founder of the AcuSports Clinic in San Diego and author of the Motor Points Index.)
Motor point acupuncture seeks to produce an involuntary twitching from the affected muscle or muscle group. It can reset the “dysfunctioning muscle spindle and to correct the abnormal muscle function and reflexive spasm.” (Callison) It also helps by restoring communication between the central nervous system and the injured muscle. This treatment can greatly reduce tightness and pain, while increasing flexibility and range of motion.
Whether you are a professional athlete, active person, or spend a lot of time in front of a computer, motor point therapy can help your body to recover from injuries and strains.
This is very similar to intramuscular stimulation (IMS), which treats based on where there are tight, palpable bands in the muscle (also known as trigger points, and in Chinese medicine referred to as "ashi points") which can be a cause of the pain and dysfunction.
Dry needling is another term used to describe IMS.
Motor point acupuncture seeks to produce an involuntary twitching from the affected muscle or muscle group. It can reset the “dysfunctioning muscle spindle and to correct the abnormal muscle function and reflexive spasm.” (Callison) It also helps by restoring communication between the central nervous system and the injured muscle. This treatment can greatly reduce tightness and pain, while increasing flexibility and range of motion.
Whether you are a professional athlete, active person, or spend a lot of time in front of a computer, motor point therapy can help your body to recover from injuries and strains.
This is very similar to intramuscular stimulation (IMS), which treats based on where there are tight, palpable bands in the muscle (also known as trigger points, and in Chinese medicine referred to as "ashi points") which can be a cause of the pain and dysfunction.
Dry needling is another term used to describe IMS.
Sarah Jenkins,
R.Ac, Dip.TCM - Acupuncture in Kelowna -
www.acupunctureinkelowna.com
1100 Lawrence Ave.
Kelowna,
BC
V1Y6X2
250-860-6295
