ACUPUNCTURE

What is Acupuncture?

It is the gentle insertion of very fine needles at specific points on the body to stimulate the movement of energy, or qi, allowing the body’s own natural healing to take place. Acupuncture is a treatment based on Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), a system of healing that dates back thousands of years.

What should I expect at the initial visit?

Your first visit will involve a thorough review of your medical history and your current medical condition. The visit takes around 1 ½ hours and includes an acupuncture treatment. After answering a variety of questions about digestion, sleep, energy, moods, body temperature, patterns of headaches and more, Cheryl will feel your pulses and then observe your tongue so that she can analyze it’s color, shape, moisture level and coat. After taking your blood pressure she will determine her diagnosis and treatment plan, which she will discuss with you before she begins the acupuncture.

How can I prepare for my acupuncture treatment?

Make sure that you have picked up and filled out the medical history intake form or arrive a ½ hour prior to your initial visit. Please have something to eat within 3 hours of your visit and wear comfortable clothing as it’s not usually necessary to change into a gown. Do not brush your tongue the day of your appointment, as observation of the tongue is an important diagnostic tool. After your treatment, drink plenty of water and refrain from excessive exertion.

In addition to acupuncture, what other modalities might be used during a session?

~Chinese Herbal Formulas are derived from plant, mineral and animal sources and are combined into formulas to work with acupuncture to resolve the patient’s condition. These formulas have been used for thousands of years and have a low risk of side effects, especially when compared to pharmaceutical drugs.

~ Electro-acupuncture utilizes low-level electricity to stimulate pairs of needles to further facilitate circulation and reduce pain.

~ Tuina, pronounced “tway-na”, is a form of therapeutic massage and stretching used by acupuncturists to stimulate acupoints and channels.

~ Moxibustion is used when heat is needed to treat the patient’s condition. Moxibustion involves the burning of mugwart (an herb that facilitates healing) and it is used to strengthen the blood, stimulate the flow of Qi and improve the immune system.

~ Cupping is a methodology that is used to relieve pain and resolve respiratory problems such as asthma, COPD or a cold. A vacuum is created, using a special suction tool, when a plastic or glass cup is placed against the skin drawing up the underlying tissues to improve circulation.

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Cheryl McCarthy, L.Ac., Dipl. Ac., MaOM is a South Carolina Medical Board licensed acupuncturist. She is also a Diplomate of Acupuncture recognized by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM). She earned her Masters of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine degree in Traditional Chinese Medicine from the Oregon College of Oriental Medicine in Portland , OR. She volunteers with "Acupuncturists Without Borders" and spent one week in New Orleans after Katrina in December 2005.