What is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is a safe and non-toxic method for treating many illnesses and injuries, or to increase one’s physical and emotional well being. Very fine needles are used to generate energy movement at specific points on the body during a treatment. It is not uncommon to feel a tingling or warm sensation throughout the body, leading to a deep state of relaxation and meditative state of mind. Acupuncture energizes your own body’s ability to heal itself.
About our Acupuncturist
Kirsten Stanton, Dipl. Ac. is nationally certified by the NCCAOM, which is the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine. She received a Master of Science from Southwest Acupuncture College in Boulder, CO in 2003. Ms. Stanton’s previous work history includes private practice in New Orleans, LA and Montana. She relocated to Grand Rapids to practice acupuncture at St. Mary’s Hospital: Wege Institute for Mind, Body, Spirit.
Presently, Ms. Stanton is in private practice both in Holland and Grand Rapids. In Holland, she is located at Harbor Health and Massage on Friday by appointment only. She is excited to be bringing acupuncture to western Michigan and is proud to be a part of the professional wellness team at Harbor Health and Massage. February 2009 marked her one year anniversary at HHM.
Ms. Stanton’s second office is located at Acupuncture of West Michigan in Grand Rapids. For more information please visit AWM’s website.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Does Acupuncture Hurt?
Most people are surprised to find out that acupuncture is not painful. Acupuncture needles are very fine and are inserted gently into the skin with the use of a guide tube. Once the needles are inserted it is common to feel deeply relaxed. Acupuncture feels really good!
What is Chinese Herbal Medicine?
Herbal medicine consists of blending individual Chinese herbs into formulas. The formula usually consists of two to twelve different herbs. Herbal formulas have demonstrated excellent results for thousands of years and have fewer side effects than conventional pharmaceutical medications. Traditionally the prescribed herbs were brewed into a tea by the patient. Herbal formulas now come in many forms: pills, capsules, granules and tinctures, which are much more convenient and less time consuming than the brewing of tea.
How does Acupuncture work?
Chinese medical theory maintains that the human body is a complex bio-energetic system. The pathways through which our life energy flows, qi as it is called in Chinese medicine, are known as channels or meridians. If the flow or balance of qi is disrupted or damaged, pain; abnormal body functions; or disease will ensue. Acupuncture works by stimulating the flow of energy at points along the meridians as prescribed for a specific treatment. By balancing and regulating the flow of qi, the body can then heal itself.
Although a great deal of research has been done, the exact mechanism by which acupuncture works has not been pinned down by western scientific method. One example of acupuncture’s effectiveness is pain relief, believed to be due to the triggering of the release of endorphins, a natural pain reducing substance within the body itself. Acupuncture has been proposed to also effect the release of specific hormones and neurotransmitters as well as other body regulating substances. Although unexplained, the benefits and results are well documented, from ancient times to present day. Acupuncture works!
Are there any side effects of Acupuncture?
The main side effect of acupuncture is a deep state of calm and relaxation. You may feel a warm or tingling sensation throughout your body. Though it is rare, a hematoma (also known as a bruise) may appear at the needled site.
Oriental Medicine
Oriental Medicine originated in China and has been practiced for thousands of years. The medicine has evolved as it was handed down from generation to generation by learned masters. The practice of acupuncture and prescribing herbal remedies comprise the major portion of Oriental Medicine, along with moxibustion, tai chi, qi gong, massage, diet and exercise.
The philosophy of Oriental Medicine dictates that every individual must be treated based upon their own condition, symptoms and physical constitution. Every patient is evaluated as a whole, with treatment based upon a thorough examination of symptoms, medical history, blood pulse and physical examination, as well as concerns of emotional and mental origin. Acupuncture and herbal medicine are a natural medicine that encourages the body to heal itself.
Questions?
If you have any questions about how acupuncture can be of benefit to your health, please contact Kirsten, kirsten@harborhealthandmassage.com Or to set up an appointment, please contact Harbor Health and Massage, receptionist@harborhealthandmassage.com
Rates
First session (approximately 1.5 hours) includes treatment $100
Follow up treatments (approximately 1 hour) $70
The World Health Organization (who) recognizes acupuncture and traditional Chinese Medicine as effective in treating a wide range of common illnesses including, but not limited to:
Conditions Effectively Treated with Acupuncture:
- Neurological
Headache
Migraine
Neuralgia
Post-operative pain
Stroke residuals
Facial pain
- Digestive
Abdominal pain
Hyperacidity
Irritable colon
Chronic diarrhea
Indigestion
Constipation
- Gynecological
PMS, cramps
Menopause syndrome
Obstetrics
Impotence
- Emotional
Traumas
Hypertension
Insomnia
Depression
Anxiety
Nervousness
- Musculoskeletal
Pain and weakness
Back and neck pain
Sprains and strains
Sports and accident injuries
Arthritis
Disc problems
Sciatica
- Respiratory
Sinusitis
Common cold
Tonsillitis
Bronchitis
Allergies
Asthma
- Eye, Ear, Nose & Dental
Poor vision, tired eyes
Tinnitus
Toothache
- Other Benefits
Increases vitality and energy
Stress reduction
Deep relaxation
Skin rejuvenation
Weight control
Stop smoking, alcohol, drug & other addictions
Regulates heart rate and blood pressure
Stabilizes the immune system
and many others…