Questions and Answers from the Acupuncture & Chinese Herbal Clinic Dr. Yu-Chen Jiao, Director 145 Waterman Street Providence, R.I. 02906 (401) 421-5352

What is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is one of the oldest arts of healing known to mankind. It is a branch of Chinese medicine which originated in China about 5,000 years ago. It is a method of preventing, diagnosing, and treating many common diseases by inserting thin needles into the surface layers of the body. The needles are accurately placed at specific locations, called acupuncture points, and set at specific depths and angles, hence the name "acu-puncture". Acupuncture point locations and needle insertion methods are based on the disease being treated, the patient's constitution, the specific local anatomy, and other factors.

Classical acupuncture involves the insertion and manipulation of filiform acupuncture needles through the skin to specific points on the body for the purpose of regulating Life-force energy called "Qi", and pronounced "Chee". The regulation of Qi balances the body and produces lasting therapeutic results. Modern technology has produced a variety of new techniques including the application of pressure, heat, cold, electricity, microwaves, lasers, and even magnetism to selected points. Points may also be stimulated electrically by placing an electrode on top of the needle, or directly on the skin without a needle. Acupuncture can be a valuable addition to general medical practice. A competent acupuncturist needs special skills derived from a sound knowledge of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM).

What is Moxibustion?

Moxibustion involves the burning of a special herb called moxa (Artemesia Vulgaris) in the form of cones or rolls above selected points on the body. Moxa is not burned directly on the skin. The warm heat and evaporated plant oil thus generated is therapeutic for treating a number of medical problems. Moxibustion can be used alone or in conjunction with acupuncture depending on the nature and condition of the ailment.

What is Cupping?

Cupping is a technique of stimulating the acupuncture points with the use of a suction cup. It usually produces only a mild pulling or tight sensation. Chinese herbal oil may be used in conjunction with cupping to enhance its effect. Cupping is a very effective addition to acupuncture therapy.

How does Acupuncture Work?

The traditional Chinese medical concepts of health and disease are intimately tied to classical Chinese philosophy. Man is a reflection of the universe, a microcosm of the macrocosm. Both are subject to the same universal, divine law, namely, the Law of the Tao ("Tao" is pronounced "Dow"). To live according to the Tao is to follow the Order of Nature and to live in harmony with the universe. If a person does not live according to the Tao, he becomes out of balance. Living within the Tao is existing in dynamic balance. The disharmony or imbalance resulting from living against or outside of Natural Law may be manifested as a physical or psychological disease. Acupuncture and related therapy must be given which reestablishes the harmony and balance within the body, mind, and spirit. It is then up to the patient to begin anew to live closer to how we are intended so that imbalance does not occur in this same way again.

The vital element in acupuncture is the Life-force energy in the body called Qi ("Qi" is pronounced "Chee"). This Life-force Energy is comprised of two complementary and opposing forces called Yin and Yang, which cycle rhythmically during each 24-hour period to nutrify the body. This bi-polar Life-force Energy permeates every cell and tissue, flowing in pathways called acupuncture meridians which are traceable on the skin.

There are twelve standard meridians, each of which is linked with a specific vital organ. On each meridian there are numerous acupuncture points at which the meridial energy flow and the energetic balance and quality of the meridian's pertaining organ can be influenced. With appropriate stimulation of these points with acupuncture needles and other instruments, the acupuncturist can influence the balance and rhythm of the Life-force Energy, the Qi.

This Qi controls the circulation of blood and bodily fluids. Its balance is essential in the healthy functionality of each and every body system, and of the body, mind, and spirit as a whole. When the Qi flow within the body becomes blocked or impaired due to trauma, poor diet, excessive emotional stress, cold, heat, and other pathogenic factors, the individual becomes sick or susceptible to sickness. Acupuncture is able to regulate the impaired Qi so that homeostasis and health can be restored. In theory and in practice, acupuncture is a holistic art and science which seeks to enhance wellness, allowing disease to be prevented, or simply to vanish in the face of balanced holistic wellness.

Does Acupuncture Hurt?

No. Usually the acupuncture needles can hardly be felt at all. Sometimes a slight pricking sensation may be felt upon the initial setting of the needle, but if this sensation occurs, it goes away in seconds. Once set, the needles may generate a slight tingling, numbness, soreness, heaviness, or tension at the site of needle insertion. This needling sensation is the body's normal reaction to the stimulation of the needles. Frequently, this is exactly the effect the acupuncturist is attempting to produce for the patient. It indicates the "arrival of Qi", which means healing and rebalancing has already begun.

The size of an acupuncture needle is only 1/5 the size of a needle used for injection or for drawing blood. Also, acupuncturists employ a special insertion technique which makes skin penetration almost sensation-free. For those who cannot tolerate needles at all, needle-less techniques such as acupressure or shiatsu, acutens, moxibustion, cupping, SSP therapy, laser acupuncture, auriculotherapy, and Chinese or Western body manipulation may be used as an alternative.

What is a

Typical Treatment Like?

After a very comprehensive diagnosis based on Dr. Jiao's expert knowledge of both Eastern and Western Medicine has been completed, the cause and state of the disease or injury is identified, and Dr. Jiao will ask the patient to remove only the clothing necessary for the treatment, position the patient comfortably on the acupuncture table, select the proper acupuncture points for the therapy necessary, and prescribe the appropriate treatment technique. Diet and exercise variations may also be prescribed. Depending on the nature of the disharmony and the constitution of the patient being treated, the points may either be tonified or sedated using various needle-manipulation techniques to affect balanced Qi. The duration of a treatment can be anywhere from 10 minutes to over an hour.

Patients may wish to bring a pair of loose, comfortable shorts to wear during a treatment.

Are there any Dangers associated with Acupuncture?

In general, when administered by a skilled and competent acupuncturist, acupuncture is an extremely safe technique for achieving relief from many types of diseases and injuries. Acupuncture does not cause damage to the nerves, blood vessels, muscles, or any other body system. There is no chance of contracting Hepatitis B or AIDS due to the use of single-use, disposable needles. It would be almost impossible to break a needle in use due to the high-quality materials used in needles today. The chance of local infection is extremely rare when proper technique is used. Therefore, acupuncture and moxibustion have the following advantages in being used over other treatment options:

The treatment is extremely safe and reliable.

A wide variety of medical problems can be treated successfully.

There is no chemical drug use, so there are very little side-effects.

Treatment does not require great down-time or missed work for recovery like surgery might, and does not debilitate the patient.

And, acupuncture is often the least expensive option as well!

 

 

What Should I Expect after a Treatment?

Some patients feel more energetic, or more relaxed after an acupuncture treatment, depending on the specific type of treatment necessary, and the condition of the patient. For those seeking pain control, it is possible to have some discomfort the day following the acupuncture treatment for the initial few sessions. This is an indication of a positive physical response to the acupuncture. It is the tried-and-true overall, long-term benefits which can occur from acupuncture that we are striving to achieve. Improvement may, and often does, occur immediately upon the first treatment. However, based on the individual pattern of disharmony, the history of the patient's health situation, and the patient's constitution, total or even partial relief may not occur until after ten sessions. It should be remembered that acupuncture will always follow two hallmark rules:

By working in unison with the body's own powerful healing systems, acupuncture does no harm in the treatment process. This being the case, sometimes rapid change could be harmful. The patient must be prepared to allow their body to rebalance and heal at the rate prescribed by nature.

The holistic nature of acupuncture, and Eastern Medicine in general, seeks not to simply address symptoms, but to do what is necessary to address the actual cause, alleviating all symptoms in the process. For this reason, a systemic, or whole-body effect is often experienced, even though the patient came to be treated for what was thought to be a local problem. This is also the reason that acupuncture points are chosen which are quite far sometimes from the site of pain or injury.

How Deeply are the Acupuncture Needles Inserted?

The depth of insertion varies considerably depending on the point used, the size and constitution of the patient, the season of the year, and of course the nature of the illness. Most needles are inserted just below the skin or between the muscles. Commonly, the depth varies from 1 mm to about 2 cm (which is less than an inch). Contrary to the common belief that deeper insertion will give more discomfort, shallower insertion can tend to give more discomfort.

How Often is Treatment Necessary?

The treatment may be given on a daily basis or once every two or more days at the beginning. For a longer period, the time between treatments should be no longer that one week, in order to maintain the positive effects of the therapy.

How Many Treatments are Needed?

The number of treatments varies not only with the type of illness and number of complaints, but also according to the age and constitution of the patient, his or her general current state of health, and how long the patient has had the particular symptom(s) being addressed. For many common illnesses of recent onset, two to six treatments will usually suffice to bring the patient back to 100%. Severe or chronic long-term cases will generally require more treatments, however some may respond very quickly. One or two treatments are not uncommon. After all of the symptoms have been resolved, several additional treatments are often recommended to produce a longer-lasting relief or remission, or for prevention of future imbalance.

Who Needs Acupuncture?

If you are interested in preventative health care or in maintaining your present health, acupuncture and moxibustion are an excellent addition to standard medical care. For example, those who get sick frequently may find that acupuncture treatments help to decrease the frequency of infection and make them feel better overall at the same time. Those who have any of the problems listed at the end of this document should consider acupuncture by a competent acupuncturist such as Dr. Yu-Chen Jiao before any dangerous or invasive procedures are chosen. Before starting an acupuncture treatment, examination by a medical doctor is advised to make sure any serious condition that may cause your symptom is ruled out.

What Other Therapy is often used in Conjunction with Acupuncture?

1. Diet. Some dietary precautions and adjustments are often necessary during and after the treatment period for the purposes of avoiding foods that may inhibit the response to treatment, or consuming foods that may accelerate the response to acupuncture. Also, dietary suggestions are given to promote a more balanced dietary habit for the patient. The following foods should be avoided during the treatment period:

a. Cold food or drink.

b. Alcoholic beverages.

2. Chinese Herbal Prescriptions. Herbs are sometimes used in conjunction with acupuncture for more complicated or rooted illnesses, or to enhance its efficacy.

3. Meditation, Lifestyle Changes, and Therapeutic Exercises. Lifestyle changes or practices may be recommended to enhance the body's immunity systems, improve circulation, reduce tension, improve the spirits, and to rehabilitate the patient.

How can I Find a Competent Acupuncturist?

Finding a reliable and skillful acupuncturist can be more difficult than locating a good family doctor or lawyer, because referral services are rare, and acupuncture is less common in the U. S. However, it has grown very steadily in recent years, and will no doubt continue to do so. Perhaps the best way is through personal recommendations by someone you trust. If you use the yellow pages or other advertisements, be sure to ascertain the qualifications of the acupuncturist you are talking to. At least the following information should be asked for:

1. Is the acupuncturist nationally certified by the NCCAOM, National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine, (formerly the NCCA)? This organization, established in 1981 by the government, is the recognized certifying body for Acupuncturists in the U.S. Certification can only be obtained through a rigorous examination, or credential document review.

2. Is the acupuncturist certified by the state in which he practices? Rhode Island, Connecticut, and over 30 other states have laws regulating and licensing the practice of acupuncture.

3. How long has the acupuncturist been practicing acupuncture?

4. Where did he get his training, is he continuing his education, and how long was his schooling before certification or licensure?

5. Anyone who promises a cure should not be trusted.

What are Dr. Jiao's Credentials?

Dr. Yu-Chen Jiao has been practicing acupuncture, acupressure and herbology since 1967, doing so in China until 1987 when he moved to the United States. He was also a surgeon in China specializing in Orthopedics, and has been in charge of several teaching hospitals and emergency rooms in his career. Dr. Jiao was the first surgeon ever to perform several different types of groundbreaking new surgeries in his native country, and elected to come to the U. S. to be able to continue to treat patients in the clinical environment versus becoming a hospital administrator. He has researched and taught at Yale and Ohio University Medical Schools as a Visiting Scholar.

Dr. Jiao is certified by the NCCAOM and has been a proctor for the national exam for this commission. He is a licensed Doctor of Acupuncture in the State of Rhode Island. His results with patients are outstanding, based on his combined understanding of Eastern and Western Medicine, and his ongoing research. Most of all, patients remark that he is 100% committed to doing all that is neccessary to diagnose and treat their specific situation. He often spends as long as two hours with new patients, before treatment begins, taking all of the time necessary to diagnose their pattern of disharmony exactly.

Dr. Jiao treats patients successfully for a wide range of disharmonies at his clinic on Waterman Street in Providence, Rhode Island. Common problems patients seek his help for include allergies, gynecological problems, acute and chronic pain, migraine and other headaches, stopping smoking, infertility, impotence, cosmetics, motor vehicle injuries, weight loss, arthritis, sports and other orthopedic injuries, and fatigue. Quite a few patients have gotten astounding relief in a short time for neck, back, or joint pain and injuries they thought were going to be permanent limitations. Most of Dr. Jiao's patients are given acupuncture therapy. Many patients also are prescribed specific herbal formulas, designed and concocted at his clinic, which either magnify the effect of the acupuncture treatment, shorten the time frame necessary to achieve full relief of the disharmony, or replace the need for acupuncture all together. Dr. Jiao's wife Ann, who also studied traditional Chinese herbal medicine in China, is responsible for the exacting formulation of the herbal mixtures prescribed by Dr. Jiao. Specific written instructions are given to each patient on how to prepare their herbal tea from the herbs provided by the clinic.

Dr. Yu-Chen Jiao and his wife Lu Ping An run a very successful TCM clinic in Rhode Island.

Is Acupuncture only useful to Cover Up Symptoms?

No. The purpose of acupuncture treatment is to correct the underlying cause, the imbalance of Life-force Energy. Once the imbalance has been corrected, symptoms often do not recur, unless the patient puts himself in similar circumstances to those which caused the problem initially. This is especially true if the illness is recent, the patient is not too advanced in age, and if he or she is in relatively good health. In cases where a disease has progressed to later stages, it is often possible to give sufficient relief that the patient can resume reasonable activities, and sometimes may even prevent the disease from developing further.

Eleven Systemic Effects of Acupuncture and Moxibustion

1. Restore Homeostatic Balance: They can bring the body from a deficient state or from a hyperfunctioning state to a more balanced state.

2. Enhance energy, blood, and lymphatic circulation, and increase nourishment to muscles, tendons, nerves, and the vital organs.

3. Increase the body's resistance to harmful insults: bacteria, viruses, aschemia, environmental factors, and even excessive emotions.

4. Soften scar tissue, and resolve microscopic circulatory stagnation and post-surgical pain.

5. Enhance immune activity.

6. Enhance the elimination of harmful waste products from the human body.

7. Local and systemic anti-infective and anti-inflammatory.

8. Improve the skin condition by increasing circulation, removing metabolic waste, releasing tension in the muscles, and possibly through the improvement of the liver function. Asian women and men have used acupuncture for centuries to keep themselves looking and feeling young, healthy, wrinkle-free, and vibrant.

9. Decrease anxiety and tension as well as improve the subjective sense of well-being experienced by patients. Therapy helps relax and recuperate the entire body.

10. Electromagnetic energy exchange between the practitioner and the patient has a harmonizing effect.

11. Relief of Pain: through the correction of underlying causation and the release of the body's own pain-relieving chemicals.

Diseases or Symptoms that may be helped by Acupuncture or Moxibustion

For 5000 years Chinese acupuncturists have been successfully employed among oriental people for the treatment of a great variety of medical problems. Today, acupuncture is being used in almost all of the countries of the world. According to the World Health Organization of the United Nations and the Acupuncture Research Center of China Medical College of Shanghai, China, the following diseases may be helped by acupuncture treatment:

1. Pain Management: Arthritis, rheumatism, headaches (migraine or non-migraine), frozen shoulder, bursitis, neck or back pain and pain of any other joint, muscle strain, tendon or nerve pain (tendonitis or facial pain, for example), sciatica, cancer pain, etc.

2. Ear, Nose, and Throat Disorders: Allergies, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), sinusitis, common cold, sore throat, certain eye diseases, toothache, post dental extraction pain, inflammation of the gums, etc.

3. Lung Disorders: Asthma, bronchitis, etc.

4. Digestive Disorders: Stomach ache, abdominal pain, indigestion, stomach or duodenal ulcer, irritable bowel syndrome (gas, bloating, diarrhea, constipation), gallbladder pain, etc.

5. Skin Disorders: Itchiness, acne, eczema, herpes, patch hair loss, and other rashes (allergic and non-allergic).

6. Mental and Neurological Disorders: Anxiety, insomnia, carpal tunnel syndrome, neurasthenia, facial paralysis, paralysis following a stroke, peripheral neuropathy, post-polio paralysis, Meniere's disease (vertigo), dizziness, seizures, bladder dysfunction, bed wetting, intercostal neuralgia, etc.

7. Heart and Blood Vessel Disorders: Palpitation, chest pain, certain non-life-threatening arrhythmia, poor circulation, leg pain, (cramp) due to congested veins or poor blood supply, etc.

8. Female Disorders: Menstrual cramps, irregular period, certain pelvic pain, premenstrual syndrome, postmenopausal syndrome, etc.

9. Others: Obesity (over-weightedness), quitting smoking or drug addiction, etc.

10. Acupuncture may also be used for health promotion and disease prevention.

Acupuncture is not a general panacea, but it is a safe and effective alternative to many medical conditions. Effectiveness of treatments varies tremendously depending on the type and duration of the illness, the age of the patient, the skill of the acupuncturist, the overall health condition of the patient, the patient's motivation in improving his health, and other factors. Many of the disorders listed above may be treated with acupuncture alone. However, some may require the addition of other forms of therapy (Western and/or Eastern). If used appropriately by a conscientious, well-trained acupuncturist, acupuncture can be a very effective form of therapy for many disorders. Since acupuncture is very powerful in controlling pain however, in order not to miss any serious conditions, examination by a competent western physician is advised prior to any acupuncture treatment.

If you have any questions about Dr. Jiao's clinic, Acupuncture or Oriental Medicine in general, Kosho Ryu Shiatsu, the book Essential Shiatsu written by Shihan David R. LoPriore, Lic. Ac., Director, Acupuncture, Shiatsu, and Oriental Medicine of New England (an apprentice under Dr. Jiao), seminars by Shihan LoPriore, or other topics, e-mail, call or write at:Shihan LoPriore

Shihan David R. LoPriore, Lic. Ac.
Headmaster, Kosho Shorei Shin Kai
Director, Acupuncture, Shiatsu, and Oriental Medicine of New England
Head Instructor, Bushidokai Koryu Bujutsu

Acupuncture, Shiatsu, and Oriental Medicine of New England, LLC
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East Lyme, CT 06333
(860) 739-5102 - (860) 739-1844 fax
For general questions, e-mail us at ASOMNE@OldPineTree.com
For Shihan David LoPriore, L.Ac., Clinical Director,
e-mail Shihan@OldPineTree.com