If you’re a follower of our blog, you know that we discuss all variety of illnesses and maladies, sharing with you both allopathic and naturopathic approaches of treatment. Naturally, we’re big believers in the latter, and in our office, we practice acupuncture, cupping, and Chinese herbal medicine. But even though you may understand that acupuncture can help your condition and get you on the path of health again, you may be hesitant to make that first appointment — especially if this is your first foray into the world of natural medicine. So in this blog, we’ll share with you when you might want to consider seeing an acupuncturist. Hint: It’s not the same for everyone.
1. Right When You First Notice a Problem
For those people who are big believers in and proponents of natural medicine, the moment something feels “off,” they are calling the right practitioner. But even if you have a naturopath on speed dial, he or she may not be the right person to call first. In that case, you can look to alternatives.
Since acupuncture (like naturopathy or chiropractic) takes a holistic approach to healing, it looks at the whole person (you!) to not only treat the symptoms you have now but also fix aches and pains at the root cause. However, since needles are typically inserted at the location of an injury, if that’s the presenting issue, relief can occur rather quickly. Additional treatments may be needed to get to the root and heal that, but you’ll know you’re off to a good start.
2. When You Want a Second Opinion
The moment your doctor mentions surgery for your bad shoulder, you may be wondering why? Is there another option? Surgery is, by its very definition, invasive, and the prospect can have you considering the pain and recovery time, not to mention the cost! In the case of a diagnosis of surgery, visiting an acupuncturist is a very viable solution. In fact, many patients of acupuncture have found relief they never thought possible after just a few treatments — and avoided surgery!
The same second-opinion idea fits when your allopathic doctor (that’s an M.D.) gives you a handful of prescriptions with the instructions to ingest multitudes of pills on a daily basis. Pills most times come with a long list of side effects, and while they may relieve the presenting symptoms, they don’t usually serve to treat the underlying cause. Or if they do, you’re relegated to a lifetime of popping pills. Acupuncture has helped a number of patients to toss out their pills and be free of side effects. Of course, you want to be sure to include all of your medical professionals in any treatment plan you choose so you — and they — are sure not to miss anything.
3. Because You’re Already Healthy — and Want to Stay That Way
While acupuncture is often used as an after-the-fact treatment, it falls under the auspices of natural medicine, which has more of a preventative rather than reactive approach. That means it is an excellent addition to your wellness routine now, before you have issues. It might be perfect for you to incorporate acupuncture visits on a weekly, monthly, or even quarterly calendar to stay on top of your health and remain in top performance condition.
Any Time Is a Good Time
So really, the answer to the question, “When should I see an acupuncturist?” is ANY TIME! Whether you’re on a health and wellness kick and want to maximize your energy levels and body functions, you’re feeling sluggish and have nagging pains, or you have ongoing issues, acupuncture may be the solution you’ve been searching for. There are no side effects, the price-per-session is affordable, and acupuncturists are passionate about sharing with you how to get healthy or maintain your health.
At Harmony and Health Acupuncture, we welcome your questions about the practice of using acupuncture, cupping, and Chinese herbs; we are completely transparent in our thoughts and approaches. If you’ve been curious about acupuncture, we encourage you to schedule your appointment and learn more about this centuries-old discipline that has helped countless individuals to reach new heights in their joie de vive!
Call us at 602-955-5444 to get started.
