Frequently Asked Questions

 

According to traditional Chinese medicine, a vital force called "Qi" (chee) circulates throughout the body along specific pathways or channels. There are 12 major channels, each of which specifically influences a certain group of body functions. These channels are named for the organs that are associated with these functions: Lung, Large Intestine, Stomach, Spleen, Heart, Small Intestine, Urinary Bladder, Kidney, Triple Burner, Pericardium, Gall Bladder, and Liver.
In order for each system to be healthy, the flow of Qi through its associated channel must be neither excessive nor deficient. The Qi should flow freely through every part of the body.

When one is ill, the flow of Qi in the body is out of balance. When one is well, the Qi flows through the 12 channels harmoniously. By means of acupuncture, we can adjust the flow of Qi in the channels, thereby restoring the natural balance, flow, and rhythm of energy in the body.

 

Acupuncture needles are very thin and fine. They are flexible and are generally not painful when inserted. The sensation of the needle insertion is often compared to the bite of a mosquito. One person may be more sensitive than another. However, the sensation is not at all similar to getting an injection because injection needles are considerably thicker.

 

Many factors must be taken into account in determining the number of necessary treatments. Although some conditions may be alleviated quickly, most chronic ailments require a minimum of six treatments.

The initial session will start with one or two treatments a week. As the patient progresses, the frequency of treatment will be decreased to twice a month, once a month, etc., until only a regular check-up during a change of seasons is needed.

Most patients will feel better after treatment, but some may feel worse. The stimulation of the body's energy as a result of treatment may cause new sensitivities in a body that have been dulled by chronic illness.

 

The World Health Organization and the National Institute of Health has determined that acupuncture is useful in the treatment of:

Chronic and Acute Pain - injuries, headaches, neck, shoulder, back pain, tendonitis, sciatica, carpal tunnel syndrome, fibromyalgia

Neurological Disorders - Post-stroke recovery, Bell's Palsy, Trigeminal Neuralgia, movement disorders

Upper Respiratory Disorders - asthma, allergies, bronchitis, sinusitis, sore throat, colds, flu, laryngitis

Digestive Disorders - irritable bowel syndrome, colitis, constipation, diarrhea, gastritis, heartburn, food allergies, ulcers

Urinary and Reproductive Disorders - cystitis, menstrual cramps, irregular or heavy periods, infertility, menopausal symptoms

Immune Function - recurrent infections, supportive treatment for cancer patients during chemotherapy

Addictions - stop addictions to nicotine, alcohol, drugs

Eye and Ear Disorders - tinnitus, Meniere's Disease

Depression, Anxiety, & Insomnia

Other Conditions - Please give Dr. Hinz a call if you have a problem or condition that is not listed above.